Irish News Public Services Card 'should be accepted as ID by private firms' Close 1/1 The Public Services Card Gallery 1 The Public Services Card

Almost 85pc of people believe the Public Services Card should be accepted as proof of identity by banks and private companies, according to research by the Department of Social Protection.

The card is necessary when applying for a range of State services but is often not recognised by private firms in the same way as a driving licence or passport.

It has proven controversial since its launch with members of the public raising fears about data protection in the past.

The department has now commissioned research which suggests public attitudes have changed somewhat.

A survey of 1,000 who have the card shows 87pc are 'very satisfied' with the process.

One in seven did say they would prefer less of their information to be retained during the application process.

Irish Independent