Govt to roll out new ID card scheme in 2010
31/12/2009 - 07:55:08The Government is to unveil a new public services identity card in 2010, in a scheme costing €25m.
Around three million people over the age of 16 will be given the card which will show the holder's name, photo, signature and public service number.
The PPS number is used to access welfare benefits and other State services.
Other information will be digitally encoded on the card.
Officials say the card will help cut out form-filling when dealing with government departments.
It is also hoped the card will help the Government in meeting its target of saving over €500m in social welfare fraud.
The card's roll-out is expected to begin in the second half of 2010.
