asked the Minister for the Environment if he has any proposals to introduce compulsory motor vehicle testing in Ireland.
Written Answers. - Vehicle Testing.
39.
At present, compulsory annual roadworthiness testing applies to 44,000 heavy goods vehicles and their trailers, buses and coaches, ambulances and taxis in taximeter areas. This scheme was introduced on 1 January 1983 on foot of an EC directive.
I favour a step by step approach to the extension of compulsory testing of other motor vehicles. It is intended to introduce compulsory testing of light goods vehicles in Ireland by 1 January 1995, in accordance with a further EC directive adopted last July. Light goods vehicles over four years old will then have to be tested every two years.