443. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the alternative application processes available for older people who are unable to access or use online application systems; whether an assessment has been carried out on the impact that the increasing digitisation of public services may have on older persons who do not have access to smartphones, email accounts, broadband services or the necessary digital skills; and the measures being taken to ensure that such individuals are not excluded from accessing essential public services and supports. [65229/26]

The Government recognises that, while the digital transformation of public services offers significant opportunities to improve accessibility, efficiency and user experience, it must be implemented in a manner that does not exclude individuals from accessing essential public services.

In accordance with the EU eIDAS 2 Regulation [,] eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/HU/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32014R0910 the use of European Digital Identity Wallets shall be voluntary. Access to public and private services, access to the labour market and freedom to conduct business shall not in any way be restricted or made disadvantageous to natural or legal persons that do not use European Digital Identity Wallets. It shall remain possible to access public and private services by other existing identification and authentication means.

The Department is committed to a user-centred approach to the design and delivery of digital public services. As part of the development of the Life Events model, engagement has taken place with a range of users who may face additional barriers when accessing public services, including older people and people with intellectual disabilities. This research has helped to identify user preferences, challenges and support requirements when engaging with digital services.

Ensuring that the needs of those at greatest risk of exclusion are understood and addressed is a key principle underpinning the development of future public services. The objective is not simply to digitise existing processes but to create digitally enabled services that are accessible, inclusive and available through multiple channels.

This approach will help ensure that public services remain available to all users, regardless of their level of digital literacy, access to technology or preferred method of engagement, while also supporting the broader goal of modernising service delivery across the public service.