NCT lifts still out of action in Kerry

SCISSOR lifts at Kerry’s three National Car Test (NCT) centres remain out of action after the NCTS’ decision to temporarily stop using the lifts – used for underbody inspections – last week.

NCTS last week decided to stop using the lifts nationwide on safety grounds after becoming aware of defects in a similar make and model. It set in motion a full condition survey of all lifts.

This has stoked controversy, with vehicle inspection reports stating ‘No Lift Inspection Done’ and resulting in a fail, even if the vehicle in question has passed the other elements of the test.

However, NCTS has moved to reassure motorists.

“This no way implies the vehicle has failed on the items tested it just addresses the fact that no lift inspection was carried out,” said an NCTS statement issued to The Kerryman. “A certificate will be issued when all testable items have been successfully completed. Customers will incur no additional fees as part of this process.

“All customers should continue to book and turn up for their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, however if the vehicle fails on another element of the test, they must present their vehicle for retest as normal.”

The statement advised motorists to keep a copy of their Vehicle Inspection Report with them in case it needs to be shown to Gardaí.

NCTS has recommenced underbody inspections for certain customers at six centres nationwide. However, none of Kerry’s three centres are among those.