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News that the Department for Infrastructure has announced one-year temporary exemption certificates (TECSs) for some vehicles to help address long waiting times for the MOT test has been welcomed by MLA Justin McNulty.
The initiative will be implemented for private cars first registered between 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 or between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018, with an existing valid MOT certificate.
The Newry and Armagh representative said “Following our calls for the Minister to consider introducing biennial testing, he has introduced temporary exemptions that effectively do that. This provision was made during the pandemic and worked well taking pressure off the system.
“Motorists across the North have been left frustrated around significant delays in MOT test appointments, the current waiting time of 72 days simply isn’t good enough. Today’s announcement is welcome and will relieve pressure for now but there must be proper consideration of longer term actions in order to streamline the process."
Mr McNulty added “It’s my understanding that DVA have consulted both the PSNI and Association of British Insurers (ABI) around these changes and the need for them. However, it’s important to note that this does not make motorists exempt from ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy.
“I remain hopeful that this move will provide a much needed pressure release valve for the DVA, staff and motorists.”
