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Public Services Card

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2020

Tuesday, 9 June 2020

Questions (662)

Michael McGrath

Question:

662. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to address the situation by which persons are unable to access services on the MyGovID.ie portal due to the fact they are unable to secure a public services card at this time; if consideration has been given to allow certain services such as access to their PRSI contributions history without a requirement to obtain a card can be availed of; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10088/20]

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Written answers

The SAFE registration process, which my Department uses to authenticate a person's identity, is a face-to-face process which results in the issuing of a Public Services Card (PSC). Once a person has authenticated their identity in this manner, they can set up a verified MyGovID account, which allows them access to high-value Government online services, including those delivered through the MyWelfare service.

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department has temporarily suspended the SAFE registration process. This decision was taken in order to comply with HSE and WHO guidelines in respect of social distancing and, as a result, it has not been possible for those who wish to obtain a PSC to obtain one.

In the meantime, and to ensure that people can access the services of my Department in a timely manner and at the same time ensure maximum social distancing, my Department introduced online services that can be accessed using a Basic MyGovID account to facilitate the acceptance of online applications.

The MyWelfare service to access contribution statement history is available as a Basic and Verified service to customers . The Basic service requires email and password details and requires the customer to answer some security questions. If successful, the statement can be posted to the customer's postal address.

My Department is moving towards a resumption of the SAFE registration process over the coming weeks on a phased basis and this will be done in accordance with all relevant HSE and Government guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the Department's customers and staff.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Question No. 663 answered with Question No. 661.
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