Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 February 2019
513. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has liaised with the RSA in regard to imported vehicles which may have been repaired in the UK but whose defects are not apparent under the current NCT; his views on whether the legislation in regard to category C and D damaged vehicles needs to be updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9040/19]
View answerMy Department and I are constantly working with the RSA to improve road safety and as the matter regarding imported used vehicles has been brought to our attention, work is currently underway to review the system in place in the UK to determine whether further action is required in the State. No comprehensive evidence has yet been made available to suggest there is a serious issue regarding the importation of used vehicles from the UK.
The National Car Test is not a comprehensive technical examination of a vehicle and accordingly it such should not be relied upon as a warranty or a method of determining whether a vehicle has been involved in a collision. We would advise that a certified mechanic undertakes a thorough examination of any used vehicle before it is purchased or imported.
In relation to updating existing domestic legislation, work is due to commence this year to regulate for the establishment of a written-off vehicles database.
