LEARNER motorcyclists in the North of Ireland are still waiting to take their practical tests more than two weeks after they officially resumed.
In June, plans to restart motorbike driver testing on 6 July were announced by the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
However, emails to learners from the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) on July 21 said bike testing had “not recommenced as yet”.
The emails said bikers would be contacted “when tests resume”.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has said she hopes to give a timeframe for the resumption of practical driving tests for cars next week.
Ms Mallon said her department will examine risk assessments in England and the Republic of Ireland in order to manage the resumption of tests in NI.
“In DVA, we’re working with unions and staff, we’re watching very closely the resumption of practical driving tests in other places,” she added
However, that is little comfort to people waiting to take motorcycle tests.
The DfI said initial test appointments were prioritised for key workers and other customers who had paid their booking fee and would be contacted shortly.
A spokesperson for the DfI said: “Waiting times for motorcycle tests will vary across test centres but based on the current demand the next available appointments should be in early August.”
On Wednesday, July 8, the DfI announced a six month extension to off-road motorcycle test pass certificates which expire before October 31 to help mitigate the impact of Coronavirus restrictions on learners.
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