Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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1409. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if he will address an issue regarding public service cards (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19010/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The SAFE registration process is the process through which a person satisfies the Minister for Social Protection as to their identity. Once their identity is verified in this way, they are issued with a Public Services Card (PSC) which can be used as proof of their identity when dealing with public service bodies. It is also used to collect social protection payments and access Free Travel as applicable.

A customer's identity can be verified by attending an in-person appointment at their local PSC/Intreo SAFE Registration Centre. Since July 2024, holders of current Irish passports may apply online using the MyGovID app, which is available to download for free from Apple and Google App stores.

Customers who are Irish citizens born in Ireland are requested to provide their current passport or driving licence. The identity of a customer who is unable to provide these documents is routinely established through an interview with a SAFE supervisor at a local PSC/Intreo SAFE Registration Centre.

It is open to any applicant to discuss their individual circumstances with my officials at their local PSC/Intreo Registration Centre.

I hope this clarifies the matter.