Promised of LPSV system reform welcomed but delays criticised

While the Irish Government’s intention to reform the Large Public Service Vehicle (LPSV) licensing system is a welcome step, the Coach Tourism & Transport Council of Ireland (CTTC) is calling for more efficient LSPV system to reduce delays in getting road-worthy buses to work.

The CTTC welcomes the Government’s inclusion of a Large Public Service Vehicles (LPSV) Reform Bill in its Autumn legislative programme, which aims to modernise the licensing and regulatory framework for large public service vehicles.

Currently, there is significant variation across counties in the time it takes for vehicles to be approved as roadworthy by local Gardaí. New buses are required to undergo both a Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) and secure an LPSV Vehicle Licence – the latter must be approved by a nominated Garda in the operator’s locality.

While this process works efficiently in some areas, in others operators experience long delays before Garda inspections can take place and licences are issued. This results in newly purchased buses sitting idle for extended periods despite the substantial investment made by operators.

Delays in the LPSV approval process are further exacerbated in cases where vehicles require re-inspection. Once an application for reinspection has been submitted, buses cannot be driven until the Garda inspection has actually taken place. This leaves operators in an even more difficult position, as vehicles that could otherwise be road-ready remain out of service for a period of time.

The CTTC hopes that any forthcoming reforms will ensure that the approval of LPSV licences is made more efficient, consistent, and streamlined, including the introduction of a defined time limit between the submission of an application and the inspection. The Government should also consider creating a more centralised licensing system under the Road Safety Authority, who operate the NCT system for cars.

The current delays and inefficiencies are costing operators significant revenue, with many vehicles left parked in yards for weeks awaiting the paperwork required to go on the road.

The CTTC looks forward to engaging with the Dept. of Transport as this legislation is developed, and to providing constructive industry insights.