Vol. 481 No. 1
175 Mr. L. Burke asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the current position regarding MOT testing in Cork and surrounding areas; if the franchise in this regard has been awarded; if so, the name of the company involved; when MOT testing will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15365/97]
The existing arrangements for the roadworthiness testing of heavy and light goods vehicles involve some 27 test centres in Cork city and county.
The proposed scheme for car testing has not yet been finalised. Preparations have however reached the stage where the appointment of management consultants to assist my Department in relation to the franchise competition and the appointment of a franchise to operate car testing on a national basis is imminent.
It is intended to appoint the franchise early in 1998 and to introduce testing as soon as possible thereafter bearing in mind the EU deadline of 1998-99.
