All MoT tests in Northern Ireland suspended over safety concerns

All MoT tests in Northern Ireland have been suspended after the overwhelming majority of vehicle lifts in the country’s MoT centres were discovered to be faulty.

After concerns were raised over the state of vehicle lifts in Northern Irish MoT centres, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) carried out an inspection of all the country’s MoT centres and the 55 vehicle lifts contained within them. Of these, 48 were reported to show signs of cracking.

• Best and worst cars for MoT pass rates

Tests for buses and HGVs are continuing as normal, but the DVA has instructed owners of any other type of vehicle with an MoT test booked in Northern Ireland on Tuesday 28 January not to attend. It has also warned that more cancellations are “very likely” and said further advice will be issued to drivers with bookings later this week.

MoT exemptions are being automatically issued for cars less than four-years-old. Owners of cars that are four or more years old will be contacted directly by the DVA.

In a statement, DVA chief executive Paul Duffy said: “Following further inspections of lift faults in MOT centres, the contractor has not provided sufficient assurance to DVA… on the effectiveness of the ongoing repairs.

“To ensure the health and safety of staff and customers, and as a precautionary measure, DVA has suspended all MOT testing for cars and light vehicles with immediate effect. Tests on heavy goods vehicles and buses will continue.”

He added: “The DVA recognises the considerable inconvenience and disruption this will cause for many people and sincerely apologises that it has been unable to rectify this situation more quickly.

• MoT failure catergories changes take effect

“Given the urgency of this situation, we are asking the public to follow media, social media channels and nidirect for updates. Staff will also be kept fully informed by their centre managers.”

Has your MoT test been affected by this? Let us know in the comments below...