Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 November 2014
216. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide the details of waiting lists for the national car testing centres in Monaghan, Cavan, Kells, Dundalk and Drogheda; the steps that have been or will be taken to reduce these waiting lists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45578/14]
View answer217. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position on the issue raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding the penalty points system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45650/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 216 and 217 together.
It should be noted that it has, for some years, been an offence to use a vehicle on public roads without a valid NCT certificate. Currently, this is a 'straight-to-court' offence which attracts 5 penalty points on conviction. The change I will be implementing shortly - by commencing section 10 of the Road Traffic Act 2014 - is to bring this offence within the Fixed Charge Payment System so that persons will have the option of receiving 3 penalty points on payment of the Fixed Charge rather than automatically being required to go to court.
The RSA has overall responsibility for the operation, oversight and delivery of the National Car Test and as such, statistics relating to NCT waiting times at any particular test centre is a matter for the Authority. I have therefore referred this aspect of Deputy Ó Caoláin's question to the RSA for direct reply. Please advise my Office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
I am advised that, while there is currently a high demand for car tests, the vast majority of car owners will receive an NCT appointment within 28 days. Customers who need an early appointment are put on a priority list and get the test within this timescale.
I also understand, from the RSA, that the availability of appointments on the NCT website is not a reflection of the total number of slots available for customers. Customers are advised that if they cannot obtain a suitable slot online they should contact the NCTS call centre directly on (01) 4135992.
To further facilitate demand, an NCT may now be undertaken up to 90 days in advance of the test due date without affecting the expiry date of the new certificate. This system is in place to ensure that owners have ample time to have their vehicle tested before their current NCT certificate expires. The RSA has run a significant advertising campaign since September to highlight this and informs me that it is in a favourable position to deal with current demand.
