Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 November 2013
515. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider linking the declaration of non-use of a commercial vehicle by extending the period of the DOE certificate while the vehicle is off the road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48017/13]
View answerIt is a legal obligation throughout the EU for commercial vehicle owners to have their vehicles tested annually. This interval is not determined by the time the vehicle is or has been in use or by mileage. The testing regime is aimed at detecting any wear and tear, deterioration or alterations that could affect the roadworthiness or safety of a vehicle. Vehicles which are off the road can degrade and deteriorate so it is just as important that they are tested and it is an offence to use a commercial vehicle (including a trailer) in a public place without a current Certificate of Roadworthiness (CRW) .
The period of validity of a CRW is calculated by reference to the last test due date. A delay in completing the test has the effect of reducing the validity period of the CRW. In cases where a vehicle is overdue its test by more than one year and is presented for testing, the regulations provide that the period of validity for the CRW shall be either 6 months falling after the testing date or a validity period determined by reference to the date of the anniversary of the test due date whichever is earlier. This provision was introduced in order that an operator who did not test a vehicle by the due date did not gain any economic advantage over an operator who tested their vehicle in accordance with the legal requirements.
While the Road Safety Authority is currently reviewing the arrangements applying to vehicles which have been off the road for more than a year, it is nevertheless important to retain the fundamental basic premise of having a commercial vehicle tested annually so that our roads are safer for everyone. However, I will ask that the Deputy's suggestion is considered as part of the RSA's review.
