By Ger Molloy – The Irish Channel
The United Kingdom government has recently unveiled plans for a new, contentious national digital identity system, designed to fundamentally alter how individuals prove their “Right to Work” in the country. While not yet in effect, this ambitious initiative marks a significant shift, with the government aiming for a full rollout before the end of the current Parliament in 2029. Across the Irish Sea, the Republic of Ireland is also advancing its own digital identity solutions, though with a distinctly different approach rooted in the broader European Union framework.
The core of the UK’s proposal centers on a mandatory digital ID that all citizens and legal residents will need to use as the primary means of demonstrating their eligibility to work. This move is explicitly aimed at combating illegal employment. Crucially, while mandatory for employment verification, individuals will not be required to carry this digital ID at all times or present it on demand by authorities for general identification purposes. The government envisions this as a free digital credential, accessible via smartphone applications, akin to the highly successful NHS App. Recognising the potential for digital exclusion, assurances have been made regarding inclusive alternatives for those without smartphone access.
However, the UK’s plan has not been met without significant scrutiny. Opposition parties and civil liberties organisations have voiced strong concerns regarding privacy implications and the potential for increased state surveillance. A public consultation is anticipated later this year to iron out the specifics and address these criticisms. The journey from announcement to implementation will undoubtedly be a complex one, navigating technological challenges, public acceptance, and legislative hurdles.
Meanwhile in Ireland
Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland is also on a trajectory towards enhanced digital identification, though its path is less about a mandatory national system and more about integrating into a continent-wide initiative. Ireland is an active participant in the European Union’s directive for all member states to offer a European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet to their citizens and residents by 2026. A key differentiator here is the principle of voluntariness. The EU framework explicitly states that the use of these EUDI Wallets will be optional for individuals, a tenet the Irish government is adhering to.
The Irish digital wallet aims to provide a secure and convenient platform for citizens to store digital versions of important documents, such as driving licenses and health records, and to seamlessly access both public and private services online. This aligns with a broader EU strategy to streamline digital interactions and enhance data security for citizens across the bloc. Ireland has already completed a pilot phase for its national digital identity wallet, indicating steady progress towards its launch.
It’s important to note the historical context in Ireland, which, alongside Denmark, is one of the few EU nations without a traditional mandatory national ID card. While the Public Services Card (PSC) exists and has become de facto mandatory for accessing many core public services, the government has consistently maintained it is not a national ID card. The forthcoming EUDI Wallet builds upon this existing digital infrastructure but maintains its voluntary status.
In conclusion, both the UK and Ireland are embracing digital identification, but with divergent philosophies. The UK is pioneering a mandatory national digital ID specifically for employment verification, sparking debate and raising significant questions. Ireland, conversely, is adopting an optional EU-driven digital wallet, prioritising convenience and secure digital interactions within a voluntary framework. The coming years will reveal how these distinct approaches shape the future of identity and public services in both nations.