Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

More than 12 months ago I raised the question of the delay in issuing Garda age cards. Garda age cards are used by persons of 18 years of age and upwards who wish to enter night clubs and other venues. It takes four to six months, and sometimes longer, to issue such cards. I have been approached by a number of these people again recently who asked the reason for the delay in issuing the cards. Many night clubs will not allow young people to enter without such cards or passports. Many passports are lost or go missing at these venues. Third level educational facilities can issue identity cards in approximately one or two days. Young people must make application to their local Garda station for such cards. The application is sent to Dublin and then the cards are sent back. There is a delay of four to six months in issuing these cards. I was assured that the delay in issuing cards would be rectified but it has not, if anything the delays are longer than 12 to 18 months. It is not a problem any of us will have but many young people are angry that age cards are not being issued within a reasonable timescale. I ask the Leader to ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform what can be done to rectify the problem.