Audit finds problems with private driving test company

A private company is coming under scrutiny following the discovery of inconsistencies in the way it conducts and assesses driving tests.

Testers at SGS Ireland have been ordered to undergo extra training following an audit of their work by the Road Safety Authority.

The audit found problems with nearly one-fifth of the tests examined.

Last year, SGS Ireland won a government contract to conduct more than 40,000 driving tests as part of efforts by the Department of Transport to reduce waiting times.

It has recently secured a second contract for 100,000 more tests.