Michael Noonan
Question:248 Mr. Noonan (Limerick East) asked the Minister for the Environment if he has any plans to introduce compulsory MOT testing; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Compulsory Vehicle Testing.
At present, compulsory road-worthiness testing applies to about 45,000 heavy goods vehicles, buses, ambulances and taxis. Testing is carried out by 103 testers — 95 private garages and eight CIE garages — which must have suitable premises and equipment. Testers are appointed and supervised, at local level, by vehicle licensing authorities. My Department have overall responsibility for supervising the vehicle testing scheme, at national level.
The Government favour a step by step approach to the extension of compulsory testing to other categories of vehicles. Compulsory testing of light goods vehicles will be introduced in Ireland by 1 January 1995, in accordance with an EC Directive. An estimated 35,000 vehicles over four year old will then be liable to be tested every two years.
A draft EC Directive on compulsory car testing, provides that cars over five years old (467,000 in Ireland) be tested every two years. The question of introducing compulsory car testing in Ireland will be kept under review in the light of developments at EC level.