To ensure that people’s identity is verified to a substantial level of assurance, my Department has implemented an identity registration process called SAFE. That process involves the capture of an individual’s photograph and signature and the verification of identity data. Items of the identity dataset that are verified include the date and place of birth as well as the mother’s birth surname. This information is taken from the birth registration record, or in the case of adopted persons, from the adoption registration record. A PSC is issued following successful completion of the registration process.
For Irish-born nationals, the SAFE registration officers in my Department have direct electronic access to the birth register and so can usually verify these data items without the need for a person to bring their birth cert.
However, these officers do not have similar access to adoption records. Consequently, adopted persons are asked to bring their adoption certificate with them when they attend for SAFE registration.
Details of the registration process and information on the documents which a person should provide are available on the Department’s website at http://www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Public-Services-Card_holder.aspx.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
