The new Social Protection Minister Regina Doherty has said the new public services card which will be issued to everyone claiming welfare payments from the is not compulsory but it is mandatory.
Ms Doherty’s comments come after there was widespread controversy in recent weeks after an elderly woman was refused her state pension after she opted not to sign up for the identity card.
However to clarify the recent situation and questions surrounding the card, Ms Doherty said all those who wish to claim welfare or pension payments from the state will have to sign up for the card.
She added: “The Government gives out €20,000,000,000 every and the point of the card is so everyone can receive what they are entitled too.”