asked the Minister for Finance whether he has considered easing the lot of taxpayers and social welfare recipients by the introduction of unique reference numbers for their use in all transactions with the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Welfare; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Tax-Welfare References System.
85.
The Deputy will be aware that since the introduction of the pay-related social insurance scheme on 6 April 1979 a specific number (RSI number) has been allocated to each individual for both revenue and social insurance purposes.
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that in the majority of cases the existing system has operated satisfactorily. The Commissioners are also aware that duplication of revenue and social insurance numbers has occurred. Discussions are taking place between representatives of the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Welfare with a view to developing a unique reference system which will eliminate the problem of duplication.