Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

692. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the information required from persons applying for a public services card; her views on compelled consent in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9861/18]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In order to have a Public Services Card (PSC) issued, a person must undergo SAFE registration. During this process, a photograph and signature are captured, and the person’s Public Identity Dataset is verified.

Depending on a person’s nationality, different documentation is requested in order to verify their data. For non-EEA nationals, a current valid passport is required. For EEA nationals (apart from Irish and UK nationals), a current valid passport or national ID card is required. For UK citizens, a passport or driving licence and birth certificate are required. While Irish citizens are requested to provide a passport or driving licence, SAFE registration may proceed where these are not presented. In such cases, a supervisor interview takes place in order to verify their identity using the data already held by the Department.

The legislation governing the PSC is contained in the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005, as amended.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.