Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 September 2022
100. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department intends taking to deal with the backlog of NCT appointments currently being experienced in the Midwest; and if motorists will be covered, given they have to wait many months for their appointments, despite booking well in advance. [47796/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I have therefore referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
This is a serious matter and I am very aware of the challenges that the RSA and the NCTS are currently facing to meet demand and the delays which vehicle owners have encountered since the start of this year. My department has supported any appropriate requests from the RSA for assistance in improving matters that have been received to date. I recently met with the Authority to emphasise the importance of reducing the current test backlog as soon as possible and it has committed to providing me with weekly updates on the NCTS. Further, my officials are meeting weekly with the Authority's senior management to monitor their progress in reducing test delays, in addition to normal corporate governance processes.
I am advised that customers seeking test appointments may contact the NCTS directly, by calling 01-4135992, or may avail of the priority waiting list function via the NCT website, www.ncts.ie. I understand that, in the majority of cases, these vehicle owners are provided with an appointment within 30 days.
I understand that the RSA has made An Garda Síochána aware that some vehicle owners have had issues securing an appointment. Vehicle owners should carry proof that they are waiting for an NCT in their vehicle with them. However, vehicle owners and drivers are reminded that they are legally required to ensure their vehicles are in a roadworthy condition at all times. It remains an offence under Section 18 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961 to drive a vehicle in a public place without having a valid certificate of roadworthiness and, as with all road traffic legislation, enforcement of this requirement continues to be a matter for An Garda Síochána.
Insurance Ireland has also indicated that its members will adopt a pragmatic approach, where cover will continue to be provided if vehicle owners provide evidence that they have attempted to secure a test appointment before the expiry of their roadworthiness certificate but have been unable to as a result of the backlog.
