Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)
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Question 388: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the procedures for a person (details supplied) to obtain a PPS number. [31684/05]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The personal public service, PPS, number is a unique reference for people who have dealings with Departments of Government and public bodies. A PPS number issues automatically to children born in Ireland. In all other cases, a person seeking a PPS number must apply at one of my Department's local offices.

It is necessary to have effective controls around the PPS number registration process to guard against fraud and to protect the integrity of data under the Department's control. It is important therefore, that a person receives only one PPS number and that it is allocated on information that is accurate and verified. To ensure the security of the system, certain procedures are set down by my Department when dealing with applications. Evidence of identity is a vital element of the allocation process. When applying for a PPS number, applicants are asked to complete an application form and to supply documentation to establish their identity. In the case of a US citizen, he or she will be asked to provide a current valid passport and evidence of residence in this country — for example, a copy of a tenancy agreement or a public utility bill. Once the process is satisfactorily completed, the PPS number will issue in most cases by post within five days.

Where queries arise, staff in the client identity services section of my Department will provide advice and assistance to an applicant, or someone acting on his or her behalf.