Midlands motorists face lengthy NCT test wait

Lenghty waiting times for NCT roadworthiness tests are causing major distress for private motorists in the Midlands, where families' vehicles are being put off the road because of potential legal consequences. 

The Midland Tribune contacted every National Car Test (NCT) centre in the region, which revealed a minimum wait until June 27 in Offaly, until May 17 in Tipperary and until July 5 in Laois for an NCT test. Some counties face a minimum wait until mid-August. 

Although a slight ease in skyrocketing winter fuel prices has made life more bearable for drivers, now many are faced with a five to six month wait on average to have their vehicle tested. The vehicle may require subsequent repair to achieve the pass standard - adding to the length of time before it is successfully declared roadworthy. 

Questions surrounding if a vehicle and driver is insured when an NCT test is so long out of date are causing distress for local people - unsure if they might be left without transport or face potential legal ramifications if they use their vehicle without a roadworthiness certificate.

Insurance Ireland has stated that its members will be "pragmatic and understanding" in their approach to the current delays at the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) and said "cover will continue to be provided where customers, through no fault of their own, are unable to obtain an NCT appointment". 

On the insurance issue, NCTS said:  "Under the current circumstances, provided motorists make every effort to book appointments in the normal way, insurance companies will recognise that the current issue is not the fault of the customer".

The Minister of State at the Department of Transport and Environment, Jack Chambers, said it is "disappointing and unacceptable" to see people facing delays for NCT tests and he is aware it is causing worry and anxiety.

Mr Chambers said there is an obligation on every motorist to ensure their vehicle is roadworthy, notwithstanding their NCT. He said  Applus, the company which provides the NCT service, is not meeting the current service level agreement so it should face penalties for the current delays.

Applus said some customers who go online may only see appointments for mid-2023, however, if they require an earlier appointment than those available online, they should go online and place themselves on the priority list.

"The option to add your vehicle to the priority list can be found during the booking process. The vast majority of customers who use the priority list receive an appointment within four weeks," a statement from the company said.