Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2021
126. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a public services card was not accepted as photographic identification for a person (details supplied) when applying for Garda vetting given that the person has never had a passport or driving licence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56326/21]
View answerThe list of public bodies that are authorised to use a person's Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) and/or accept a Public Services Card (PSC) as proof of identity when transacting with an individual, is set out in social welfare legislation.
An Garda Síochána is included on that list but only in respect of its own members. When the legislation governing the PSC was debated in the Oireachtas in 1998, it was made clear at the time that An Garda Síochána would not be authorised to request or accept the PSC as proof of identity from a member of the public.
The Minister at the time advised the Dáil that "... the public service card will not be a general identity card as the provisions in the Bill make it illegal to use it apart from accessing public services. For instance, it may not be used for identity purposes by the Garda, publicans, etc.".
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
