Gerry Horkan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I apply the word to the Chair. I thank both of the contributors. I read their opening statements last night and again this morning. There is a lot in them. They are quite technical. I do not think I have ever had anybody talk to me about this kind of stuff when I was canvassing a local or general election for a candidate. At the same time, it is important that we are aware of what is being progressed. I note that we can have a political opinion on it but, at this stage, it does not look for any kind of ratification by Parliament.

I thank both contributors for their opening statements. I have a few questions on them. I am looking at the European digital strategy about cutting fuel emissions and allowing more video conferencing. There is a certain irony in the fact that members have to be on the campus to have this meeting and that we cannot do it remotely. This is the exact kind of thing that should be able to do. I appreciate that there are constitutional questions involving that however, over time we should try to make sure that people can work remotely as much as they choose if they are able to do the job appropriately.

First, I have a few questions to Mr. Lowry. Is there any scope for this to be applied to things like the European Health Insurance Card, EHIC, or even in proving one’s identity on platforms such as Facebook or Twitter? We talk about anonymous accounts, bullying, and so on. I know this is a little away from the basic premise of this. Could it be applied so that one has to show one's identity to establish a Facebook or other social media accounts, to eliminate the trolling elements and the anonymous bullying that goes on online?

On the cost and the financing, does that come out of the Central Fund or can Revenue charge for services? Is that part of the scheme? From an individual’s point of view, a digital wallet may be of benefit. However, if that were to be done, what would its benefit be to an ordinary member of the public, or to any of us, our family members or friends? Could we open bank accounts in other countries? Obviously, the digital Covid certificate is working very well. What else can we do with this? What is envisaged that can be done with the eID technology, if we all had these digital wallets?