Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Independent)
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402. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to introduce an NCT test for motorcycles; and if he is satisfied that there are sufficient numbers of motorcycle mechanics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54979/13]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Roadworthiness testing in Ireland is carried out in conformity with Directive 2009/40/EC which does not currently include a mandatory requirement for the roadworthiness testing of motorcycles and other L class vehicles.  My position is that any proposal to do so would require extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders in advance of reaching a decision on the matter. The introduction of roadworthiness testing for motorcycles is part of wider roadworthiness proposals currently under discussion at EU level between the EU Commission, EU Council and the European Parliament. The present proposals provide for the mandatory testing of motorcycles in excess of 125cc by 1st of January 2022, unless already provided for in EU Member States national legislation. I have every confidence that the motorcycle maintenance industry will be able to meet any demands placed upon it by this development.