Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 4

Written Answers. - Vehicle Roadworthiness.

Willie Penrose

Question:

57 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the plans, if any, he has to ensure compliance with the European Directive 96/96/EC on roadworthiness testing of private motor vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16278/97]

Ivor Callely

Question:

184 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will give details of the proposals or regulations for roadworthiness and testing of motor vehicles; the criteria to qualify for approval to carry out such MOTs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16403/97]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 184 together.

Under the European Communities (Vehicle Testing) Regulations, 1991 to 1996, compulsory roadworthiness testing already applies in Ireland, consistently with EU requirements, to goods vehicles, large trailers, buses and ambulances.

Testing is carried out by authorised testers — generally private garages, who are appointed and supervised by the main local authorities. Testers must have suitable premises and equipment and appropriately qualified staff.

Directive 96/96/EC requires the extension of roadworthiness testing to private cars. It is intended that such testing will be carried out at dedicated test centres established and operated by a franchisee to be appointed on a national basis, following an open competitive tendering process. Preparations for this new scheme have reached the stage where the appointment of management consultants will be made shortly, to assist my Department in relation to the franchise competition and the appointment of the franchisee.

It is intended to appoint the franchisee early in 1998 and to introduce car testing as soon as possible thereafter bearing in mind the EU deadline of 1998-99.