The introduction of identity cards in the UK will have serious consequences for the operation of the common travel area that exists between Ireland and Britain, according to a report drawn up by the British Irish Inter Parliamentary Body (BIIPB), made up of politicians from the two countries.
The report also suggests that the British ID card has implications for Irish citizens living in Northern Ireland, as it does not take account of dual nationality, despite the recognition given to it in the Belfast Agreement.
The report, drawn up by a committee of the BIIPB under the chairmanship of the Fine Gael Justice spokesman, Jim O'Keeffe, has recommended that the British government should engage in dialogue with the Irish Government to try and eliminate the difficulties the scheme will pose for Irish citizens.
"The potential implications from an Irish perspective, which are unique to the Irish British situation, were not considered in any great detail prior to the enactment of the British ID cards legislation," concluded the report.
"The introduction of British ID cards, in tandem with other initiatives, such as e-Borders, have the potential to affect significantly the operation of the common travel area that exists between Ireland and Britain," it added.
The British ID Cards Bill, which became law at the end of March, foresees the introduction of ID cards on a phased basis over the next two years. The scheme will initially be introduced on a voluntary basis with those applying to renew their passports having the option to request an ID card.
From 2010, anyone applying for a passport will be issued with an ID card and have their details entered on a national identity register. There are no plans for an Irish ID card although the Government has said that it intends to develop a Public Service Card which will effectively fulfil many similar functions.
The report has recommended that the two governments should engage in dialogue on the issue and that the British should ensure that the integrity of the common travel area is maintained. It also proposes that some way should be found to take account of the sensitivities of nationalists in Northern Ireland and of some Irish people living in Britain.
