Debate contribution: MOT Testing: Backlog

Debate contribution by Mr Alex Easton on 11 March 2024.

MLA: Mr Alex Easton
Party at the time: Independent
Date: 11 March 2024
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Private Members' Business
Heading: MOT Testing: Backlog
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 4270242

Text

My comments will be short, as many of the points have been clearly stated. There is no doubt that the current MOT system is broken. That stems from COVID, which led to a huge backlog of vehicles that were not able to get MOTs. That has led to a broken system, with a broken computer system that either does not work properly or cannot cope with the demand. I have been inundated with complaints from residents in my constituency who have had to wait weeks or months, a period during which they have needed their MOT certificates to drive legally. They have often had to travel as far as Enniskillen to get an MOT test. That, Minister, is not acceptable. Three principal reasons underpin the importance of today's debate on the MOT. The first two are self-evident: road safety and environmental impact. The third reason that I will highlight is its importance to the economy. First, it is important to take ownership of the delays and accept the legitimate criticism and frustration of road users who are doing everything right but are being caught in the situation through no fault of their own. The situation is not OK. We need to look at why getting it right in a timely manner is important. Simply getting it right protects not only drivers but passengers and cyclists. It also protects the environment, and, while we may disagree on the level of climate change, we must own our contributions to preventing environmental issues, through exhaust emissions in this instance. Furthermore, regular MOT testing extends the sustainability of the vehicle, leading to savings to the driver and less environmental impact from disposal and manufacture. There is a need to plan. The old adage, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail" is particularly relevant here. Accountability is critical. It is simply not good enough to charge increasing fees without showing evidence of quality services. Road users deserve better. With the cost-of-living crisis, the importance of the used car market is evident. Let us be consistent on the value that an MOT test brings to confidence in that market. It does so by giving the buyer confidence in the condition of the vehicle and by promoting the integrity and efficiency of the used car market, which is an important part of the economy across Northern Ireland and in my North Down constituency. Other parts of the UK use reputable garages and dealers to deal with backlogs: why can we not do that? To not do so does not make sense to me. It is common sense that practical solutions need to be found. Let us get this right through collective action, planning and delivery to give us an effective MOT system that not just promotes delivery of a safer and greener Northern Ireland but contributes to our collective well-being. Let us use a bit of common sense, as the solution is out there.

489 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

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