Mitchell calls for random spot checks at NCT centres

Speaking at an Oireachtas Committee hearing with the Irish Drivers Association, Fine Gael Transport Spokeswoman Olivia Mitchell TD has said: "The level of monitoring of the operation of the NCT is unacceptably inadequate. NCT has a ten year contract which is only subject to one mid-term review, yet the company operates a Government-sponsored monopoly for a test which is compulsory for all motorisits. No other public service is subject to less supervision.

If the public is obliged to subject themselves to an NCT, they are at least entitled to some courtesy, value for money and transparency. To ensure this happens, Transport Minister Martin Cullen must put in place a system of random spot checks.

The NCT was set up in response to an EU Directive which required engine emissions and brakes to be checked on a regular basis. The Irish test, however, adjudicates on dozens of items, many of which have very little to do with road safety.

The Australian experience, where detailed research and analysis of road safety issues has been conducted, shows there is no difference in the number of severity of accidents between states with a car test and those without.

The value of the NCT as well as the items examined must be reviewed by the new Road Safety Authority in order to ensure that the test actually contributes to road safety and gives the public value for money.