Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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287. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an agreement is in place with Irish Rail to ensure that a free travel card will be accepted even if expired during Covid-19 restrictions on public services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27292/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals whose Public Services Cards (PSCs) were due to expire in the following three months were written to by the Department advising them that they could renew their PSC by attending an office of the Department and having a new photograph taken, or by applying for a renewal by post, sending a passport-size photograph.

In the context of the Covid 19 pandemic, this practice ceased at the beginning of March 2020, to ensure compliance with HSE and WHO guidelines in respect of social distancing in our offices.

My Department has since introduced a new service whereby a person whose PSC is expiring can call 1890 837 000 and a new PSC - valid for three years from the current expiry date of their Card - will issue to them, carrying the same photograph and information as their current PSC. The issuing of revised reminder letters will resume in due course.

It is also important to note that the National Transport Authority has accepted expired PSCs from people entitled to Free Travel since March last year.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.