Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 17 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 3

Written Answers - Commercial Vehicle Testing.

Michael Noonan

Question:

197 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the conditions or regulations which apply to the setting up of a commercial vehicle test centre; if the sanction of his Department is required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13929/00]

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

Compulsory testing of commercial vehicles, in accordance with the European Communities (Vehicle Testing) Regulations, 1991 to 1999, is carried out through authorised testers appointed by local authorities. My Department has no involvement in such appointments, but provides the general regulatory and administrative framework for the operation of the commercial vehicle testing.

The main practical requirements for appointment as an authorised tester are as follows. An application form should be submitted to the local authority in whose functional area the proposed test centre will be located. The current application fee is £75. The applicant must have or have access to suitable premises and equipment, in accordance with standards set out in guidelines on premises and equipment, available from local authorities. The premises and equipment are subject to inspection by an authorised officer of the local authority. Subsequent to an appointment, testing must be carried out by suitably qualified mechanics who have received appropriate training supervised by an authorised officer of the Minister.

A local authority has discretion whether or not to make any appointment of authorised testers and may, as necessary, suspend or terminate appointments.