Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Early in the year I raised the question of identity cards for 18-year-olds and the delays in processing these by the Garda authorities in Dublin. Delays can take three to six months and it means young people must bring their passports as identification to gain access to nightclubs. This is unacceptable. We were told the delays were because of a shortage in the relevant Garda department. What is the position and has it changed? I understand that the situation is as bad as it ever was.

I support Senator Coghlan's request that the restrictions on the credit unions be lifted. It is a reasonable request from the credit union movement and I am sure most Members have been lobbied by their local credit unions on the issue. It is time we had a level playing field.