APPENDIX 22
Memorandum submitted by Smith's Coaches
As a partner in a family coach business since
1944, established in 1936, I would like to make the following
comments regarding the operations of VOSA examiners and the whole
department in general.
Firstly VOSA examiners do not work to a standard
edict.
A handbook for operators, sets out the requirements
needed to enable a pass to be issued for a PSV vehicle. However
it appears that these rules are "left to the discretion of
the VOSA examiner" which leaves a lot to desired.
VOSA stations are, I believe, given a target
to meet over a certain period, be it a fail or pass rate, and
bonus payments are given regarding their performance. This can
lead to all sorts of malpractice.
Why do some VOSA stations give a pass, for a
vehicle, but when that same vehicle is presented immediately at
another VOSA station it is rejected. Surely the same set of rules
should apply throughout the country.
I know of operators in this locality who have
never had a VOSA inspection, and whose vehicles and premises leave
a lot to be desired.
If a vehicle is given an "S" defect
notice, why is it that the vehicle can be used for a further 10-14
days before having to be presented for a further test inspection?
The "S" defect notice having been recorded against the
company. Surely if the vehicle warrants a "S" defect
notice, the defect should be put right before the vehicle is used
again?
Legislation is changing at an alarming rate
(mainly to comply with EEC rules) but operators are not being
advised by VOSA of the changes which can affect their business.
Vehicles that have previously passed the test are suddenly being
failed for something for which legistlation has recently been
passed and companies have not been informed of the changes.
The impression smaller coach companies are getting
is that the Government are favouring the larger companies, and
are gradually forcing small coach companies to close, forgetting
that these same companies have been, and are, the ones operating
in areas that the larger companies do not consider profitable.
These are rural areas which need transport for shopping, etc as
rural post offices and shops have had to close because of competition
from supermarkets.
There are far too many Government departments
duplicating each other's work, halve these and make the remainder
do a fair day's work to justify the salaries being paid.
I am sure you will be getting a copy of a comment
by the Editor of Coach & Bus Week No 709 dated 15 December
2005 which sums up my feelings for the future of the industry.
10 January 2006
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