I propose to take Questions Nos. 161 and 162 together.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS), including scheduling of tests and waiting periods. The payment of service credits (penalties for failure of the contractor to meet required service levels) is a matter between the RSA and Applus, as the legal parties to the NCT contract. I have referred the relevant parts of the Deputy's queries to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response with the information requested has not been received within ten days.
I am aware of the challenges that the RSA and the NCTS are currently facing to meet high demand for tests and the delays which vehicle owners are encountering. My officials continue to meet weekly with the Authority, to monitor progress in reducing test delays and to ensure all possible actions are taken to bring the waiting list to an acceptable level in 2023, as well as supporting all appropriate requests from the RSA for assistance.
There has been considerable progress in addressing the long-term staffing issues which have caused this backlog and in increasing capacity at test centres, through measures including increased staff overtime and recruitment of new vehicle inspectors. On 30 June, my colleague Minister Richmond extended the quota of General Employment Permits for roadworthiness testers, allowing for the recruitment of a further 100 testers from outside the EEA. There are currently 631 testers operating or in training and testers are being assigned to test centres with the most significant delays.
The RSA is supporting the service provider to improve customer booking and to return the service to service level agreement standards. In the interim, I am advised that customers seeking test appointments may contact the NCTS directly on 01-4135992 or avail of the priority waiting list function on the NCT website, www.ncts.ie . In the majority of cases, vehicle owners are provided with an appointment within 30 days.
