Public Services Card

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 November 2021

Thursday, 11 November 2021

Ceisteanna (324)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

324. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a service to allow for the renewal of public services cards has been discontinued at a location (details supplied) in County Sligo; her views on whether it is not acceptable for residents of the area and its vast hinterland to have to travel 20 miles or more to avail of the service; her further views on whether such a move to discontinue the service is not in line with the Our Rural Future initiative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55322/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection

I am happy to confirm that the service referred to by the Deputy is scheduled to resume from next week.  People will be able to apply for a Public Services Card (PSC) or renew their PSC in Tubbercurry one day a week.

My Department has an extensive range of offices providing essential services across rural Ireland.  This service will complement the service already provided in other offices in Sligo town, Swinford, Claremorris and Boyle, and will ensure that anyone in the South Sligo area who wishes to acquire or renew a PSC can do so in Tubbercurry, if they so wish.

There are alternative ways of extending or renewing an expired PSC.  An expired card can be extended for three years by calling my Department at 0818 837000.

In addition, my Department has introduced an online PSC renewal service, available on MyWelfare.ie.  By submitting an up to date photograph a person can renew their PSC for 10 years.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.