Nichola Mallon urged to set out ‘clear timetable’ to resolve Northern Ireland’s driving test crisis

All driving tests scheduled from last Saturday until Friday, November 20 were cancelled as coronavirus restrictions were extended.

The NI Direct Government Services website says the decision to cancel appointments was “taken to protect the health and safety of customers and staff in line with scientific and medical advice”.

Michelle McIlveen, the chair of the Assembly’s infrastructure committee, warned that the “backlog of driving tests seems to be holding steady at record levels”.

“In 2020 almost 30,000 fewer driving tests have been conducted compared to the same period last year. The equivalent figure for vehicle tests stands at over 600,000,” she said.

“This is a disturbing snapshot and shouldn’t be ignored. The Department needs to urgently rethink and accelerate its strategy to stepping up testing in order to meet soaring demand for services.”

Ms McIlveen predicted all appointments up to November 27 would also be cancelled, with many young people having seen several scheduled tests cancelled.

“It is unacceptable that young drivers could be waiting the best part of a year to secure a driving test,” she said.

“As a result of the most recent NI-wide restrictions all driving tests scheduled between October 17 and November 13 were cancelled and it now seems likely that this will also take place for those with appointments booked until November 27. This will leave learners facing a sense of déjà vu, with some having tests cancelled on two or three occasions.”

Ms Mallon is due to face questions from MLAs at Stormont today, and Ms McIlveen said she should set out a “clear and ambitious timetable for meeting the backlog is testing”.

She added: “The DUP will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of those seeking to get their licence and get on the road as soon as possible.’’