Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister said the cards are issued on request. While I acknowledge that people living in west Cork might not cross the Border very often, those of us living in Border counties certainly will. It is important, therefore, that people living in Border counties be automatically issued with one because they cross the Border day in, day out. Otherwise, there will be delays on private business or commercial business. It could be a significant adverse issue if it is not made mandatory before that date.