Driving examiners' strike
DRIVING examiners in Heckmondwike are on strike today (Thursday) leaving learner drivers who are eager to pass their test disappointed.
But the Driving Standards Agency is urging all driving test candidates booked for a test to turn up regardless of the strike action by examiners who are members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union.
The strike is part of the national PCS action over public sector pay.
Driving Standards Agency's Chief Executive Rosemary Thew said: "Not all examiners are members of the PCS union. We therefore want candidates to attend so that practical tests can be delivered if possible. Theory tests are not affected and will be taking place as planned."
But the test centre in High Street was closed when candidates arrived for tests this morning.
If no examiner is available for a test, a new date will automatically be re-booked by DSA and the candidate will be sent an out of pocket expenses form along with details of the new test. If candidates fail to turn up they will not be able to claim out of pocket expenses if their tests are cancelled and they will need to re-book their own tests.
Ms Thew said: "Candidates who turn up but are unable to take their tests because of industrial action will not have to contact DSA to re-book.
"They should hear from us with a new date within five to ten working days. We apologise for the inconvenience this will cause.
"Call centres and other DSA offices may also be affected. Customers who wish to book a practical test will still be able to use our internet booking service on www.direct.gov.uk/drivingtest. Further details about out of pocket expenses are available on DSA's website on www.dsa.gov.uk"
The National Union of Teachers (NUT), the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS), the University and College Union (UCU) and the TUC have joined forces in strike action today to urge the government to act over public sector pay.
Have you been affected by the strike? Email Julie Bartram.
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Weather for Cleckheaton
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
