A second driving test centre is needed in County Kildare
Waiting lists are 'unacceptable'
by Paul O'Meara · Leinster LeaderA second driving test centre is needed in County Kildare - .at the very least until waiting lists return to an acceptable level.
That’s according to Cllr Evie Sammon, Fine Gael general election candidate for Kildare North, who wants it located in that constituency.
She noted that a consultancy firm has recommended a complete overhaul of the Road Safety Authority “including price hikes to certain motoring services.”
Cllr Sammon added: “Lengthy waiting lists for driving tests and NCT appointments have long been frustrating thousands of motorists across the country.
“The idea of increasing the fees for these tests and appointments, while the level of service is not of sufficient standard is completely unfair and unacceptable.”
In Kildare North, she said, there are people waiting up to six months for a driving test, and five months for an NCT.
“It is time that a relief contract was negotiated for a second driving test centre in Kildare North so that the backlog is addressed. It would be a complete slap in the face to turn around to people waiting over six months for a test and ask them to pay higher fees.
“We have made significant progress in public transport in recent years, but the reality is that people in rural areas still have no choice but to drive. We are still heavily reliant upon the car to access work, education, and day-to-day activities.
“Many businesses in rural and regional areas also rely on an efficient driving test and NCT system, and placing a further financial strain on them to use these services would be unreasonable.”