Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Nov 2003

Vol. 573 No. 3

Written Answers. - National Car Test.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

513 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that cars being presented for NCT are being rejected on the basis that the English version of the county name is shown only; when this aspect of the regulations was first applied; his plans to change this regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25099/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

The format, dimensions and technical specifications of registration plates for display on motor vehicles are currently provided for in the Vehicle Registration and Taxation (Amendment) Regulations 1999, which were made by the Revenue Commissioners. The regulations provide, inter alia, that a registration plate shall exhibit the index mark – for example, G – and placename – for example, Gallimh – of the relevant licensing authority. The regulations specify the placename to be used for each of the 29 licensing authorities, which is the Irish version of the county concerned. The requirements in relation to the index marks and placenames are longstanding going back to the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations 1990.

A check on the registration plate to establish whether it complies with statutory requirements has been part of the NCT since it was introduced in 2000. Until 14 September 2003 registration plates were a "fail advisory" item and failure to comply with the requirements was not a reason for refusal of a test certificate. However, following the full implementation of the NCT with effect from 15 September 2003 failure on any test item, including the registration plate, has been a reason for refusal of a test certificate. No charge is made by the National Car Testing Service for a retest where a vehicle failed because of an inadequate registration plate. I have no plans to ask the Revenue Commissioners to change the Vehicle Registration and Taxation (Amendment) Regulations 1999.