NCT delays are 'absolutely unacceptable', says Minister

• Published date: 05 June 2023
• Author: Cormac McQuinn
• Publication title: Irish Times: Web Edition Articles (Dublin, Ireland)

There is an agreement between the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the company involved, Applus, to hit a 12-day target this summer

However, the average current waiting time for tests is 30 days and some people are reportedly not offered tests at some NCT locations until as far away as January.

Mr Chambers said this is probably an issue with the website which Applus needs to address.

He said the delays are "causing great concern to many motorists" and "it's a complete failure by Applus to operate the service as per the contract with the Road Safety Authority".

He told RTÉ Radio he has written to the RSA "expressing my ongoing annoyance with this dysfunction from Applus and the effect it is having on motorists but also on road safety".

The Fianna Fáil TD added: "I think Applus need to pay serious penalties for this dysfunction and the non-performance of their contract."

Mr Chambers said there is a dispute between the RSA and Applus on the penalties and that he has re-emphasised with the RSA the need for penalties to be paid "that goes into millions at this point".

He said: "I think it's important that Applus are held to account . . .

"They should be...