Written answers

Thursday, 10 September 2020

Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection

Free Travel Scheme

Photo of Claire KerraneClaire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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136. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the difficulties faced by those entitled to a free travel pass but are unable to access one as they cannot obtain a public services card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23132/20]

Photo of Heather HumphreysHeather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The SAFE registration process, which my Department uses to authenticate a person's identity, is a face to face process which results in the issuing of a Public Services Card (PSC). At the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department temporarily postponed the SAFE registration process to comply with public health guidelines in respect of social distancing.

My Department has currently resumed SAFE registration services in Intreo Centres and Branch Offices countrywide. This is being done in accordance with relevant guidelines to ensure the health and safety of customers and staff.

Officials of my Department are contacting customers who are entitled to Free Travel and who have not yet received their Free Travel PSC, inviting them to contact their local Intreo Centre or Branch Office to arrange their SAFE registration.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.

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