Public Service Card debacle highlights Govt arrogance – O’Dea

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Employment Affairs & Social Protection Willie O’Dea TD says a report from the Data Protection Commissioner relating to the Public Services Card confirms concerns raised by myself and civil liberties groups about the use of the card.

The report has found that it is illegal to ask people to make people obtain the card in order to access State services, other than those provided directly by the Department of Employment Affairs & Social Protection.

Deputy O’Dea said, “I have been raising concerns about the use of this card for over two years now, along with other TDs and civil liberties groups. I have put questions to the Minister on the floor of the Dáil and at Committee, and despite the fears and concerns being highlighted, this government continued to press ahead with its flawed plan.

“The Data Protection Commissioner’s report is damning. It found that it was unlawful for the government to make individuals apply for and obtain the card in order to access State services such as renewing a driving licence, passport card or when applying for a college grant.

“While the principle of the card has merit, the legal and transparency issues were never addressed by the government. In fact, time and time again, Minister Doherty and her cabinet colleagues dismissed these concerns. She now needs to outline if and when her officials are planning to meet with the Attorney General to address these issues.

“Since its introduction, more than €60m has been spent rolling out the cards, but aside from specific Departmental services, its unclear what the status of the current cards is. We need to hear from the Minister on this as well.

“This report must be published immediately so that the full findings can be examined. I am calling on Minster Doherty not to delay its publication and to issue a statement on the findings as a matter of urgency”, concluded Deputy O’Dea.