798. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda age ID cards issued to date in 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45075/24]

Helen McEntee, Minister for Justice: As 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 advised by the Garda authorities that the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 (Age Card) Regulations 2010 provides for a voluntary Age Card scheme which can be obtained by individuals aged 18 and over to show that they have reached the legal age for purchasing alcohol.

The scheme is an important proof-of-age mechanism and has in co-operation with the licensed trade, helped to combat underage consumption of intoxicating liquor. The Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau (GNYDB) have responsibility for the Age Card scheme on behalf of An Garda Síochána.  Applications for the card are made online via the Age Card website (www.agecard.ie). The current fee for an Age Card is €10.

The number of age cards issued for 2024 up until 31 October 2024 is as follows: