Alliance Infrastructure spokesperson, Andrew Muir MLA, has called for the Infrastructure Minister to clarify the situation for motorists whose vehicles are due to undergo a vehicle test.

Andrew Muir said: “It is understandable that some test centres have had to close and others have restricted the number of tests they can carry out while potential faults are examined, but I am calling on the Minister, Nichola Mallon, to give some clarity to motorists whose vehicles are due a test.

“Obviously the safety of staff and motorists attending the centres is paramount, but we need clarity on whether or not vehicles whose test has been cancelled are legally allowed on the roads. If drivers are prohibited from using their untested vehicles while repairs are carried out at the test centres this can cause a great inconvenience, particularly if the vehicle is used for business purposes.

“When repairs to the test centre equipment have been completed, there will obviously be a backlog of tests to be carried out and the Driver and Vehicle Agency may need to consider extending the opening hours of centres to get up to date.”