Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, the RSA is the body responsible for the operation and oversight of periodic roadworthiness testing under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006.

My Department is actively assisting the RSA in tackling the long-term labour shortages of qualified mechanics which have contributed to the current testing backlog and the corresponding difficulties for vehicle owners to secure suitable test dates. This is a serious issue that is being addressed by extensive recruitment domestically and outside the EU and EEA, and, in the longer term, by training and upskilling programmes, which the RSA has discussed with the Teachers Union of Ireland, TUI. These are not overnight solutions but we can expect that real progress will be made in the coming weeks towards a target to return to an average of 12 days by May 2023, although efforts will continue to achieve this earlier if possible. My officials will continue to keep the situation under close monitoring and review through weekly meetings with RSA management.

In the immediate term, there are mechanisms in place to assist vehicle owners to secure a test appointment. I am advised by the RSA that a priority waiting list is in place and that motorists should apply if they require an appointment sooner than those that are available in the public booking system. NCT test appointment slots become available through cancellations or rescheduling of appointments. Customers are dealt with in the order they go on the list.

I am aware that many motorists will have concerns about potential difficulties regarding their motor insurance and not having a valid NCT if stopped by gardaí. Insurance Ireland has 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 because of the current backlog. Separately, both the RSA and my Department have made An Garda Síochána aware that some vehicle owners have had issues securing an appointment. Motorists should keep a record of their upcoming test date in their vehicle.

As the Deputy has stated, it remains an offence to drive a vehicle on Irish roads without a valid NCT under road traffic legislation. It is an essential public health and safety measure, and an important component of the road safety strategy. Since its introduction, through the detection of defaults such as-----

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