The Mid Ulster MLA said, “The backlog in MOT
tests has been causing huge problems for motorists over the last year.
With some unable to tax their car, and a three-stage process for people
in need of a test there are still significant problems for the Minister
to deal with.
It would be wrong not to acknowledge the progress that has been made in
terms of an increase in tests, but many people are not yet noticing any
impact from that.
It isn’t acceptable for people to be faced with a wait of four or five months for an MOT test, particularly when they could be impacted by either issues relating to the tax or insurance status of the car because of their inability to secure a test certificate.
In January multiple Sinn Fein MLAs were demanding the then Minister work with the DVLA to address these “unfair penalties”. Just a few days ago Sinn Fein MLA Liz Kimmons was demanding that more be done in relation to increased testing capacity. It would be very useful to know what action the Minister is taking in relation to these criticisms from his own party colleagues.
The Minister could look at issues such as the notification period issued to drivers before their MOT expires, but it would be very useful to see if he has acted on the calls from his party colleagues issued just a few months ago.”