As Minister for Transport, I do not have any role in, nor would it be appropriate for me to get involved with, how private insurance companies negotiate policy agreements with their clients. However, I can confirm to the Deputy that it remains an offence under the Road Traffic Acts to drive a vehicle in a public place without a valid certificate of roadworthiness. I would also note that any vehicle assessment report provided by a private mechanic as an alternative to a certificate of roadworthiness would have no statutory basis and would not be legally binding.
I understand Insurance Ireland has confirmed that its members will be pragmatic and understanding in their approach to the current delays and cover will continue to be provided where customers, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain their NCT due to backlogs at test centres. Under the current circumstances, provided motorists make every effort to book appointments in the normal way, insurance companies will recognise that the current issue is not the fault of the customer.
