I can confirm that as and from 19th September 2016, all persons applying for a certificate of naturalisation who are aged 18 and above and who are resident in the State must be registered with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection for a Public Services Card. This is an important measure for identification purposes and to protect against fraud and identity theft and to uphold the integrity of the Irish naturalisation process. It ensures that the identity of applicants for naturalisation will be verified to a high standard.
The Private Security Authority intends to examine the suitability of the Public Services Card in connection with its licence application process subject to discussions with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.
Work is also ongoing with a view to transitioning the Garda Age Card function to the Public Services Card.