Cecilia Keaveney
Question:186 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Transport if he envisages the NCT system being adapted in order that the test garage can correct faults found on site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23586/03]
Written Answers. - National Car Test.
To avoid the potential for a conflict of interests and to reinforce the independence and integrity of the car testing scheme, the national car testing service can only carry out vehicle tests. This has helped to establish a high level of public acceptance of the NCT and I have no plans to change the position.
Significantly more vehicles would pass their first car test if more car owners maintained and serviced their vehicles in accordance with the manufacturers' recommendations rather than using the test as a diagnostic to detect defects. This would also avoid the need for retests and associated time and cost losses for motorists.