Seán Haughey
Ceist:536 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Transport if he will reduce the fee for the national car test for old age pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25169/03]
Written Answers. - National Car Test.
The framework for the national car test, NCT, involves its operation on a public private partnership and self-financing basis. The contract for the NCT was awarded on foot of EU competitive tendering procedures and has the objectives of optimising test integrity, customer service and value for money. In accordance with the contract, the costs of operating the national car testing service are met by way of charges for tests and for re-tests that require the use of equipment in a test centre.
Private motoring costs have not in the past received public subsidies, apart from the reliefs of VAT-VRT, motor tax and fuel tax afforded for the benefit of persons with disabilities. I do not consider that the introduction and operation of the NCT justifies a departure from the well established principle of non-subsidy of private motoring costs, and I do not accordingly envisage a change in present arrangements.