MLA Claire Sugden has said the appointment of a new infrastructure minister is an opportunity to resolve the MOT testing backlog that has for months frustrated and inconvenienced motorists.
Ms Sugden questioned the new minister John O’Dowd, asking what steps were being taken to eliminate the problem and ensure people can get tests before their current certificate expires.
“This issue, which was caused by the pandemic but which has remained with us for many months, needs resolved. We really should have got on top of this by now,” Ms Sugden said.
“While the police have said that they won’t penalise drivers for having an expired MOT, you will not be able to renew your car tax.
“People are also having to travel across Northern Ireland if a timely appointment is not available at their local testing centre, costing people more time and money than it should.
“I appreciate that more testers have been employed and more testing slots opened up. This was well-needed, but more needs to be done to eliminate the backlog for good.
