Wilson: DVA workforce shortages must be addressed
DUP MLA Gareth Wilson has called on the Infrastructure Minister to make addressing workforce shortages within the Driver and Vehicle Agency a priority, warning that vacancies are contributing to pressure on staff and longer waits for motorists seeking MOT and driving test appointments.
Mr Wilson's comments follow a recent Assembly Question response which revealed that there are currently 60 unfilled Vehicle and Driving Examiner vacancies within the Department for Infrastructure, as part of a wider total of 561 vacancies across the Department.
Mr Wilson commented: “Motorists across Northern Ireland are increasingly frustrated by lengthy waits for MOT and driving test appointments. While demand pressures are often highlighted, it is impossible to ignore the fact that the Department currently has 60 vacant Vehicle and Driving Examiner posts.
“These are the very staff responsible for delivering the services that drivers rely upon. When such a significant number of positions remain unfilled, it inevitably places additional pressure on existing employees and creates challenges in meeting demand.
“The Infrastructure Minister needs to make workforce planning and recruitment a priority. Current staff deserve credit for the work they are doing under considerable pressure, but they cannot be expected to carry the burden indefinitely.
“The best way to support them is by ensuring that vacancies are filled and that the workforce has the capacity required to meet public demand.
“People need timely access to MOT tests and driving tests for work, education and family commitments. Delays can have very real consequences for individuals and businesses alike.
“The Minister must set out what action is being taken to recruit and retain more staff, particularly Vehicle and Driving Examiners, and provide confidence that these workforce shortages are being addressed as a matter of urgency.
“Addressing staffing problems won't solve every issue overnight, but it is a necessary step if we are serious about reducing waiting times and delivering a service that meets the expectations of the public.”