The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) says it is “disappointed” at the forthcoming MOT test price hike in Northern Ireland.
An MOT test for a car will cost £38 from the beginning of next month, up from £30.50. The cost of testing a taxi will also increase, up from £138.50 to £147.
The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) said it is facing a shortfall in its income due to “the rising cost of delivering services”, adding that it “must cover the cost of delivering services through the income it generates from fees”.
In response, Sue Robinson, chief executive of the NFDA, said: “The NFDA remains firmly against the DVA’s recent decision to proceed with their proposed cost hikes for driving and vehicle tests, we are particularly disappointed to see that these increases are being introduced while their service is still not up to an adequate level.
“Motorists in Northern Ireland are still experiencing unacceptable waiting times for an MOT, and the test itself still lacks a credible emissions test.”
“Whilst the NFDA recognises that fees have not increased since 2005, we strongly oppose the price rises across the board, in particular, the unjustifiably high increase in retest fees, which is set to disproportionally affect less affluent motorists and is poorly timed in the midst of an ongoing cost-of-living crisis. This punitive decision is an attempt by the DVA to increase revenue at motorist’s expense.
“Many households still depend on their private vehicle in all aspects of their life, including their livelihood, and an MOT is a necessary legal process to ensure the vehicle continues to operate safely. Motoring costs are already the highest they have been in decades, with unprecedented rises in insurance premiums, cost of fuel and road taxation, so we are disappointed that the DVA have concluded that it is right to increase costs further.”
Mike
That’s some jump ! It’s never risen like that in the UK.
Still, I don’t see what they are moaning about, it’s still considerably cheaper than the UK
graham+cox
completely agree when does ours go up