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25/07/2019
Extra MOT Slots Added To Tackle Backlog
The Department for Infrastructure is set to create tens of thousands of extra MOT appointments in a bid to tackle an extensive backlog facing motorists in Northern Ireland.
It comes after many were left unable to secure an slot until after their current MOT expired because of the long waiting lists.
The latest effort to cope with demand will see a further 9,000 appointments added on Sundays and bank holidays in August, and an additional 1,000 tests per day from September, the BBC reports.
In June, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) moved to open test centres on Sundays to aid the issue, however reports of missed appointments continue to pose a challenge.
Meanwhile, staff at MOT centres are set to strike tomorrow, Friday 26 July, as part of a wider civil service action. The Department said plans are in place to minimise disruption, however Alliance infrastructure spokesperson Kellie Armstrong has called on the DVA to provide assurance that the industrial action won't cause further delays.
The Strangford MLA said: "The ongoing issue at MOT centres has left many people having to take their cars off road while they await a test date. If someone has waited weeks for a test date and turns up tomorrow only to find their MOT has had to be cancelled due to strike action, there will be understandable uproar.
"I have asked DVA to clarify how they will continue to deliver services tomorrow during the strike. I have also asked for advice to be published confirming what will happen if an MOT has to be cancelled as a result of strike action."
(JG/CM)
It comes after many were left unable to secure an slot until after their current MOT expired because of the long waiting lists.
The latest effort to cope with demand will see a further 9,000 appointments added on Sundays and bank holidays in August, and an additional 1,000 tests per day from September, the BBC reports.
In June, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) moved to open test centres on Sundays to aid the issue, however reports of missed appointments continue to pose a challenge.
Meanwhile, staff at MOT centres are set to strike tomorrow, Friday 26 July, as part of a wider civil service action. The Department said plans are in place to minimise disruption, however Alliance infrastructure spokesperson Kellie Armstrong has called on the DVA to provide assurance that the industrial action won't cause further delays.
The Strangford MLA said: "The ongoing issue at MOT centres has left many people having to take their cars off road while they await a test date. If someone has waited weeks for a test date and turns up tomorrow only to find their MOT has had to be cancelled due to strike action, there will be understandable uproar.
"I have asked DVA to clarify how they will continue to deliver services tomorrow during the strike. I have also asked for advice to be published confirming what will happen if an MOT has to be cancelled as a result of strike action."
(JG/CM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
