Jonathan O'Dea MP, Liberal for Davidson, is hosting a local forum for senior residents at the St Ives Community Hall on Friday 28 September from 10am to 11.30am. It will cover issues relevant to licensing of older drivers as well as NSW ageing strategy and service delivery.
Representatives from the RTA and the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care will provide overviews on relevant topics. There will be good opportunity for audience feedback and participation.
“While I welcome the RTA reviewing the subject of older driver licensing, fairness must prevail. Most senior constituents have not objected to reasonable medical testing from the age of 75. However, an automatic restriction or impediment to driving at age 85 is unfair and discriminatory. If someone has an exemplary driving record and is medically fit, they should not have to otherwise prove that they are capable and competent to hold a normal license in NSW. ” Mr O’Dea said.
“The proposal that they be allowed to drive within a 10 kilometre radius from their home is not sufficient. Someone with an unblemished driving record who is medically fit deserves better than being forced to sit annual tests to maintain a normal license past the age of 85.
“Government should better respect the ability of people to self-regulate their driving, especially when there is no other indication that their judgment is impaired.” Mr O’Dea said.
The public can also formally submit their views direct to the RTA by 19 October 2007.
Mr O’Dea said the second half of the forum will look at issues surrounding aged care, such as future planning, respite care, Seniors Cards, Home Care services and other matters relating to the provision of State services to the aged within the community.
The St Ives Community Hall is located on the St Ives Village Green near Memorial Avenue and those wishing to attend should RSVP by Monday 24 September: email davidson@parliament.nsw.gov.au or fax 9880 7488 or phone 9880 7400.
For further information, please call Jonathan O’Dea on 0418 241 500.
