"We need a regional approach to support a drive for change so it can become more accessible and affordable for people to get their full driver licence in Hawke's Bay," she said.
"Learning to drive is a basic life skill that sets you on the road to independence, but in Hawke's Bay, we are facing a $20 million economic and social challenge with an estimated 25,000 people stuck in the system."
However, Mr Foss retorted saying Ministry of Transport figures show, as at October 20, 2015, there were 19,289 people with a Hawke's Bay address on a Class 1 (car) restricted or learner driver licence - he claimed this was only 3.6 per cent of all Class 1 restricted or learner licences nationwide.
"There is nothing illegal about being on a learner or restricted licence - it takes time to progress through the Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS)," he said.
"Last year, we introduced changes to the system, including requiring drivers and motorcyclists to progress to the next stage within five years.
"This enables novice drivers and riders to gradually gain skills and experience and to progress to a full licence within a reasonable period."
Intersectoral Leadership Group chairman Lawrence Yule said the cross-sector body had made the issue a priority at a meeting held yesterday.
Mr Foss, who is a member of the group, said the Transport Agency also recently changed providers for driver licence testing.
"VTNZ are now delivering a much better service, with significantly reduced wait times for testing," said Mr Foss.
He also disputed the cost of getting a driver licence, saying that for all three stages of the GDLS it totals $338.20 (see story page 7).
"Further improvements to the licensing system are on the way," he said.
"Changes will be aimed at improving the system's efficiency and accessibility while maintaining our core objective - ensuring, as much as practically possible, the safety of you, your children, family and all road users."
