Westmeath Junior Minister voices opposition to 'cashless NCT' move

Westmeath Minister of State Peter Burke had voiced concern about NCT Ireland's decision this week to move to cashless payments only.

In a statement yesterday (Tuesday) evening, the Mullingar-based Fine Gael representative called for the issue to be revisited.

NCT Ireland, which is run by Applus+, announced on Monday that the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) was "saying goodbye to cash" and would be "going cashless over the coming months for your safety and convenience".

Minster of State Burke said he would be calling on his Ministerial colleague, Jack Chambers, to "engage with the NCTS" in relation to the cashless move.

"I strongly advocate for a transition period on this and urge the Minister to maintain a twin track approach regarding payment for NCTs," he stated.

"We need to facilitate those in our communities who want to pay with cash and are more comfortable using cash to pay their bills.

"Not everyone is comfortable with bank cards and paying with a tap.

"We have a responsibility to all in the community and I have called on the Minister to review this announcement from the NCT," he said.