Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 917: To ask the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the procedure for applying for an age identity card; if there is a backlog of applications waiting to be processed; if so, the length of time it is taking to process applications; if additional resources will be allocated to clear same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32055/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The National Age Card is a voluntary proof of age card issued to persons over the age of 18 years. The application procedure for the age card is governed by section 40 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988, as amended, and by the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 (Age Card) Regulations 2007. Applications are made, on the designated form, to the Garda station in the area in which the applicant resides. The application form must be accompanied by the applicant's birth certificate, at least one other document confirming identity, one recent passport sized photograph and the prescribed fee of €10. The required identification and photo are authenticated by a Garda and forwarded to the company which produces the cards on behalf of An Garda Síochána. The applicant is provided with a receipt which contains a form reference number, which allows the applicant to track the progress of the application on-line at www.agecard.ie. The company produces the card and posts it to the applicant at the address provided on the application form. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the length of time to process an application is between 6 to 8 weeks and that there is currently no backlog of applications. I am also informed that, following a tender process, the Garda authorities will introduce an on-line application process and engage a new card supplier from the beginning of 2011.