Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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333. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of any engagement with the RSA in relation to the decision to no longer accept cash in NCT centres in the coming months; the rationale for the decision; the way in which those who wish to pay in cash can do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38290/23]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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366. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider instructing the NCT to reverse their decision to go cashless only and to accept cash as a legal tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38548/23]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 333 and 366 together.

I am aware of a proposal by the NCT operator to introduce a cashless service. My Department has advised the RSA that alternative payment options for NCT appointments must be made available, to ensure that all motorists, including those without access to electronic or card payment systems, can continue to pay for the service.

The RSA is currently in discussion with the NCT operator about payment systems. Any change to payment methods must be agreed with the RSA and as above, the Department will require that the NCT service will be able to be paid for using cash, within the terms of the contract in place. Payments will not be restricted to credit card or electronic payments. The Department will require that a cash pre- payment option may be used to pay for the NCT service if it moves to a pre-payment system.

The RSA has committed to keeping my Department informed of developments on this issue, as a matter of priority.

The operation of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). I have referred the Deputy's queries 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.