Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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97. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has considered extending the NCT date for those who are elderly or medically vulnerable to allow them to stay at home as per level 5 guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2585/21]

Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, on the 20 April 2020, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport at that time, Shane Ross TD, signed the Road Traffic (National Car Test) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 (S.I. No. 132/2020) into law. These Regulations provided that a 4-month extension was given to NCT test due dates under specific circumstances. This extension was given as a direct result of the suspension of the NCT roadworthiness service on 28 March 2020.

With respect to the current Level 5 restrictions, the NCT has been classified as an essential service under Part 2, Item 14(x) of the Schedule to the Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No. 10) Regulations 2020 (S.I. No. 701 of 2020). This is in light of its role in protecting public safety on our roads, including the safety of essential workers. Accordingly, no additional extensions to NCT test due dates are under consideration at present.

Measures have been in place to allow elderly or vulnerable customers have someone else present the car for testing and where this is not possible customers are asked to contact the NCT directly on 01 4135992 to discuss their specific situation.