Experts have slammed the current state of MOT tests in Northern Ireland as drivers continue to deal with weeks-long backlogs.
Drivers in Northern Ireland have reported delays of more than 70 days as they wait to get their vehicles tested to make sure they are roadworthy.
John O’Dowd, Infrastructure Minister in Stormont, outlined measures for how the Government could cut down on the long waiting times for MOT tests.
He proposed introducing temporary exemption certificates and even suggested that vehicles could be tested every two years.
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Drivers are being warned of long waiting times for an MOT test
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Speaking in Stormont yesterday, O’Dowd highlighted how measures could be launched to help drivers deal with the backlog during an assembly debate on the issue.
The Sinn Fein MLA for Upper Bann said the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has 55 MOT examiner vacancies and 133 applications, with hopes that places will start to be filled from early June.
He added: “In addition, anyone who cannot secure an appointment before their tax expires, or their tax has already expired, have been advised to contact the DVA customer services team for an urgent MoT appointment," he said.
"The DVA currently asks customers to contact them within five days of their tax expiry date but I can confirm that, with immediate effect, the DVA is extending this window to 10 days to provide more flexibility for customers and reduce any anxiety.”
O’Dowd said he would consider other measures, urged ministers to put forward suggestions and announced that he would provide another update after Easter.
However, many motoring experts were not impressed with the backlog of tests, highlighting how it could have a dramatic impact on road safety, especially if vehicles have issues and can’t be checked by professionals.
Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), welcomed the discussions in Stormont although noted that the MOT system was in an “unacceptable state”.
She said: “As much as these backlogs have been exacerbated by the Covid pandemic and the discovery of hairline cracks in hydraulic equipment, the MOT regime is still in an unacceptable state.
“Many car dealerships are suffering from reputational damage as they are left unable to sell vehicles.
“We urge Stormont to work with industry stakeholders to devise a plan which tackles the backlog and ensures motorists can have their MOT tests conducted in a timely manner whilst also maintaining road safety.”
Robinson also pointed out how the scheduled opening of two new test centres, which were meant to be up and running this year, have been delayed, potentially until next year.
She said: “Tragically, 2023 saw the highest annual number of deaths on Northern Ireland’s roads for eight years.
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The Infrastructure Minister said proposals would be considered to slash the backlog
PA
“Consequently, it is imperative that in 2024, the importance of road and vehicle safety is duly recognised, with pre-emptive measures like MOTs playing a critical role in maintaining this standard.
The Northern Ireland branch of the NFDA said it would continue to work with Stormont to ensure any issues are addressed for drivers and car dealers.