Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
869. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda age ID cards that were issued in 2022 and to date in 2023, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48737/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under Section 26 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), which includes the administration of the Garda Age Card scheme. As Minister, I have no role in the issuing of Age Cards.
I have contacted the Garda authorities and have been advised that, under the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 (Age Card) Regulations 2010, anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a voluntary Age Card. The Age Card can be used by individuals aged 18 and over to show that they have reached the legal age for purchasing alcohol.
The Garda Age Card Office falls under the remit of the Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau (GNYDB).
I am advised by the Garda authorities that a total of 28,194 Age Cards were issued in 2022. From 1 January to 2 November 2023 there have been a total of 22,842 Age Cards issued by An Garda Síochána.
It is important to note that an Age Card is a 'proof of age' card and not an official identity card. Further information on the Age Card scheme can be found at www.agecard.ie.
