Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 June 2024
287. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda age ID cards issued in 2023 and to date in 2024; the amount collected in this period for the issuing of these age ID cards, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26787/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under Section 26 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), which includes the administration of the Garda Age Card scheme. As Minister, I have no role in the issuing of Age Cards.
I have contacted the Garda authorities and have been advised that, under the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 (Age Card) Regulations 2010, anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a voluntary Age Card. The Age Card can be used by individuals aged 18 and over to show that they have reached the legal age for purchasing alcohol.
The table below, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, shows the number of Age Cards issued between 1 January 2023 to 31 May 2024, as well as the surplus income generated from the Age Card fees.
|
Year |
Age Cards Issued |
Surplus Income from Age Card Fees |
|
2023 |
25,372 |
€9,792.56 |
|
2024* |
9,367 |
€1,243.88 |
*Up until 31 May 2024
It is important to note that an Age Card is a 'proof of age' card and not an official identity card. Further information on the Age Card scheme can be found at www.agecard.ie.
