Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2020
502. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the way in which a person can arrange an appointment for a public services card in view of Covid-19 restrictions. [13952/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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).
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department has temporarily suspended the SAFE registration process. This decision was taken to comply with HSE and WHO guidelines in respect of social distancing. As a result it has not been possible for those who wish to obtain a PSC to get one.
My Department is currently resuming SAFE registration work on a phased basis in Intreo Centres and this will be done in accordance with all relevant Health and Safety and Government guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the Department's customers and staff. I would expect that SAFE registrations will be resumed nationwide over the coming weeks.
In the meantime, anyone who has lost their PSC may contact the Department and a replacement will be issued.
Where the Department has written to a person inviting them to renew their PSC, they may do so by post.
It should also be noted that the National Transport Authority has confirmed that expired Free Travel PSC's will be accepted on public transport for the time being.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
