Minister for Transport Shane Ross said there are "no opt-outs" for the introduction of NCT tests for tractors next year.

The compulsory test will apply to tractors that are capable of driving at more than 40km/h that are used for commercial road haulage.

However, nearly all tractor manufacturers produce a T5 model tractor that is capable of travelling in excess of 40km/h.

The new EU law is due to be brought in from May 2018. Shane Ross also said that there is no requirement to bring in a test for tractors used exclusively for agricultural purposes.

He added that the Department of Transport will be working with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to implement the tractor NCT tests, adding that the RSA will be "engaging with key stakeholder groups" in the near future.

Under the new rules, tractors will have to be tested four years after first registration and every two years after that.

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