Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

My concern is not just that the PPS number is the only identifier mentioned but that, in fact, it is quite a narrow definition of PPS number in the Bill, in that it is the PPS number within the meaning of section 262 of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005. We are talking about Irish PPS numbers and that is what is specified in the Bill. I recognise there is reference to the “information to be delivered to the Registrar” and “such information as stands determined by the Registrar for the purposes of this section”. I am not sure if that is what the Minister of State is referring to. Again, my concern is that it is not particularly clear and I believe the amendment would clarify the Bill.

The term "PPS number" is used throughout the Bill. Even though there is that small power in terms of referring to other information, consistently, the term "PPS number" is used in regard to how the register is to be operated and function. For example, the Bill states:

As respects a PPS number of a beneficial owner that has been delivered under subsection (2) to the Registrar-

(a) the Registrar shall not disclose that number, and

(b) that number shall be stored securely by the Registrar.

We do not have an equivalent for a passport or any other form of identification, which concerns me. I am not seeking to limit the discretion in terms of forms of identification, which is why my amendment suggests the national insurance number or passport number. I would be happy if language were inserted in the Bill to suggest such other forms of identification are appropriate or if the definition of PPS number were widened in some frame. I am concerned it is not simply in one place in the Bill but throughout the Bill that "PPS number" is used as a form of placeholder in terms of the functioning of this system. We want to ensure there is no ambiguity.