To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to Individual Vehicle Approval Tests, whether (i) timescales exist for resumption; or (ii) remote assessment procedures are being considered as an alternative to resumption.

I am aware that the decision to suspend all testing has caused inconvenience for some customers who use our services, including where an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test is required and a Temporary Exemption Certificate is not applicable.

Given the impact that the suspension of testing has had on businesses, I am keeping the position under review with the aim of reintroducing IVA services as soon as it is safe to do so, taking account of guidance on social distancing and in line with the NI Executive’s Pathway to Recovery, to ensure the safety of staff and customers during the testing process.

The IVA test requires the physical examination of a vehicle and, therefore, remote assessment procedures are not considered to be a viable option at this time. When I am satisfied that it is safe to resume IVA testing again, I will ensure this is communicated immediately to our customers.