Personal Public Service Numbers

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022

Tuesday, 26 April 2022

Ceisteanna (1020)

Marc Ó Cathasaigh

Ceist:

1020. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps she will take in order to address the unusual situation whereby, if a person in Northern Ireland applies for a PPS number in the South, they are required to have proof of need, such as an offer of employment, although a number of employers require a PPS number when hiring and therefore cannot apply for certain jobs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19959/22]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection

My Department is responsible for the allocation of Personal Public Service Numbers (PPSNs) to those who require one to transact with a public body.

Persons taking up employment require a PPSN so they can pay tax and social insurance.

Any person applying for a PPSN for employment purposes, regardless of where they live, must specify the reason they require a PPSN and also submit the appropriate documents to support their application. The documents required include a signed letter from their employer, on headed paper, confirming the date on which the employment begins.

I can confirm that a PPSN is not required if an individual is looking for work or for an employer to make an offer of employment.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.