Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2015
99. Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the reason European Union citizens are refused personal public service numbers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17706/15]
View answerThe Personal Public Service (PPS) Number is an individual’s unique reference number for all dealings with Government Departments and public bodies. Before a PPS Number can be allocated, the person making the application must provide evidence of identity and demonstrate a valid reason for the application. PPS Numbers are issued by the Department following checks on an individual’s identity. In addition, acceptable evidence of address must be provided. The process of allocating a PPS Number includes the capture of a photograph and signature. Photographs captured are compared with other photographs previously captured in order to detect any possible duplicates. The requirements are the same for all persons regardless of nationality, i.e., whether EU citizens or not.
When a person is refused the allocation of a PPS Number, it is because s/he failed to provide acceptable evidence of identity or address, and/or to demonstrate a valid reason for seeking the Number.
I understand the Department has contacted the Deputy’s office and requested details of the specific cases that have led to this question. These can then be investigated and the Deputy advised directly of the outcome in each instance.
