For a valid marriage to take place in Ireland, there are some different requirements than in the US.
First, the couple must given notification of intention to marry at least 3 months in advance. This is to be done in person, making an appointment with the Registar. It cannot be done by post. A friend of mine had a rough experience, as the official quizzed him as a father would before the permission was granted. None of those shotgun Las Vegas weddings allowed here.
Then the ceremony must take place at an approved venue. Actually, prior to November 2007, the ceremony could only take place in a church or in the Registry. No weddings in homes, parks, etc. During a church ceremony, there would be a specific point in which the couple signs the registry that is kept in the church, the record for all time of their valid marriage. Ahh, this is consistent with the understanding among researchers that the churches are the place of record for births, marriages, and deaths. I never really understood that in the US, but now I see how that would be true.
Now, however, the official record is kept in the Registry, regardless of the venue (similar to in the US). There are a few more allowances for venues, but not much. A park is still not acceptable.
The following is taken directly from the official guidelines concerning marriage venues:
"The place in which marriage may be solemnized must be a fixed structure that is clearly identifiable by description and location as a distinct part of a venue.
The requirement that the marriage be solemnized in a fixed structure that is open to the public precludes marriages being solemnized in the open air, a tent, marquee or other temporary structure, or a private dwelling."
Showing posts with label Irish System. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Irish System. Show all posts
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Divorce in Ireland
Divorce in Ireland was illegal until 1995.
Currently, it is still difficult to get a divorce in Ireland. Well, to be more thorough, let me note that there are 5 options one can take following a "marital breakdown."
1) Separate by fact. This is simply when the two spouses no longer cohabit with each other, but no legal action is taken.
2) Deed of separation. This is some sort of document signed by both spouses that states the marriage has broken down and makes provisions outside the courts (I think).
3) Judicial separation. This is made in the courts whenever there are special reasons for the breakdown, such as adultery, abuse, or clear evidence that the marriage has failed. If this is granted, the persons are still not permitted to re-marry.
4) Divorce. This may be granted only after the spouses have lived a part for 4 out of the 5 previous years.
5) Decree of Nullity. This is when it is determined that the marriage never was valid to begin with, as some vital component was missing, such as the consent of one of the persons.
Can you imagine? Spouses must wait 5 years and live separately for 4 of those years before a divorce can be granted. I don't really know the protocol in the US, and what different options may be available, but believe one can get a divorce within months.
Just think how society in the US would be different if divorce had only been made legal 13 years ago and still had such hoops to jump through before it could be granted.
I am a believer in marriage for life, and I am looking forward to making this covenant with my future husband.
Currently, it is still difficult to get a divorce in Ireland. Well, to be more thorough, let me note that there are 5 options one can take following a "marital breakdown."
1) Separate by fact. This is simply when the two spouses no longer cohabit with each other, but no legal action is taken.
2) Deed of separation. This is some sort of document signed by both spouses that states the marriage has broken down and makes provisions outside the courts (I think).
3) Judicial separation. This is made in the courts whenever there are special reasons for the breakdown, such as adultery, abuse, or clear evidence that the marriage has failed. If this is granted, the persons are still not permitted to re-marry.
4) Divorce. This may be granted only after the spouses have lived a part for 4 out of the 5 previous years.
5) Decree of Nullity. This is when it is determined that the marriage never was valid to begin with, as some vital component was missing, such as the consent of one of the persons.
Can you imagine? Spouses must wait 5 years and live separately for 4 of those years before a divorce can be granted. I don't really know the protocol in the US, and what different options may be available, but believe one can get a divorce within months.
Just think how society in the US would be different if divorce had only been made legal 13 years ago and still had such hoops to jump through before it could be granted.
I am a believer in marriage for life, and I am looking forward to making this covenant with my future husband.
Abortion and Birth Control in Ireland
Abortion is currently illegal in the Republic of Ireland as well as Northern Ireland, except in certain cases of rape or protecting the woman's health. It is legal in Great Britain, so women from the north and south may journey to England to carry out the operation, but it is certainly taboo to speak of.
Birth control methods were made legal in Northern Ireland when Great Britain modified its laws in the 1950's and 1960's, but they were illegal in the Republic of Ireland until 1980. A woman would face criminal charges if she imported contraceptives. There is the famous story of the "contraceptive train" in 1971 that would traveled from Belfast to Dublin, with 50+ women aboard who had bought contraceptives, mostly condoms. In 1973 it became legal to import contraceptives for personal use, but not for selling or distributing to other people. Gradually prohibitions from advertising, selling and such were altered, and in 1980 contraceptives became legal.
The Catholic Church officially opposes contraception, instead promoting Natural Family Planning, which is a method that is consistent with the natural design of the body, and reported to be effective when used properly.
Birth control methods were made legal in Northern Ireland when Great Britain modified its laws in the 1950's and 1960's, but they were illegal in the Republic of Ireland until 1980. A woman would face criminal charges if she imported contraceptives. There is the famous story of the "contraceptive train" in 1971 that would traveled from Belfast to Dublin, with 50+ women aboard who had bought contraceptives, mostly condoms. In 1973 it became legal to import contraceptives for personal use, but not for selling or distributing to other people. Gradually prohibitions from advertising, selling and such were altered, and in 1980 contraceptives became legal.
The Catholic Church officially opposes contraception, instead promoting Natural Family Planning, which is a method that is consistent with the natural design of the body, and reported to be effective when used properly.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Banking Issues Again...
I got form in the mail with the title "Fee Advice," and it details all the transaction fees on my bank account for this quarter. They charged me .20 for every single transaction I made with my debit card the past three months--which I use every time I buy groceries, bus passes, etc. Then .20 for each ATM withdrawal, regardless of whether or not it was one of my bank's machines or not. Then .20 for each automated deposit of my payroll, .20 for automated withdrawals for my broadband payments, .20 for the use of internet banking, .30 for each check written or cashed, and 4.50 for general account maintenance.
(Yes, per check...makes me not want to write my friends, church or charity a check but rather give cash, out of principle. I hate throwing money away to nebulous, bureaucratic, administrative entities...)
I went into the bank and questioned the charges. They said I should have read the fine print in the brochure and contract before I signed on. Of course. It's my fault indeed, and they had no mercy.
However, in the future, all these fees can be waived if I simply "top-up" my phone once a quarter--which means put more credit on my pay-as-you-go plan. Easy enough, will do, lesson learned!
(Yes, per check...makes me not want to write my friends, church or charity a check but rather give cash, out of principle. I hate throwing money away to nebulous, bureaucratic, administrative entities...)
I went into the bank and questioned the charges. They said I should have read the fine print in the brochure and contract before I signed on. Of course. It's my fault indeed, and they had no mercy.
However, in the future, all these fees can be waived if I simply "top-up" my phone once a quarter--which means put more credit on my pay-as-you-go plan. Easy enough, will do, lesson learned!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Christmas break
People here really know how to take a break.
As I've already mentioned, no one works on the weekends, and in fact I've gotten quite horrified looks when I've mentioned being in the office on a Saturday. (But hey, I'm making up for hours missed while doing long runs in the daylight hours during the week.) It is a great feeling to not feel expected to tell the boss on a Friday that "I'll get on that this weekend and give it to you on Monday."
Okay, so the above simply suggests that they know how to maintain boundaries in their personal and professional lives. But it gets better...
The university of 20,000+ students literally shuts down from Dec. 22-Jan 5 and goes to great lengths to discourage, well down-right prevent, persons from attempting to work during these Christmas holidays. I've heard stories of how in the past the university officials had all the heating in the buildings turned off and this was enough to ensure no one came to work. Then they started locking the doors to the buildings, but I know some professors who still got in to do their final exam grading. However, when the doors to the toilets began being locked, then that was the last straw. No one can be spotted on campus for these 2 weeks now.
Oh, and lest you think this is only in the academic world, I have been told by many that during the full week between Christmas and New Year's, all the shops, cafes and such will be closed as well.
As I've already mentioned, no one works on the weekends, and in fact I've gotten quite horrified looks when I've mentioned being in the office on a Saturday. (But hey, I'm making up for hours missed while doing long runs in the daylight hours during the week.) It is a great feeling to not feel expected to tell the boss on a Friday that "I'll get on that this weekend and give it to you on Monday."
Okay, so the above simply suggests that they know how to maintain boundaries in their personal and professional lives. But it gets better...
The university of 20,000+ students literally shuts down from Dec. 22-Jan 5 and goes to great lengths to discourage, well down-right prevent, persons from attempting to work during these Christmas holidays. I've heard stories of how in the past the university officials had all the heating in the buildings turned off and this was enough to ensure no one came to work. Then they started locking the doors to the buildings, but I know some professors who still got in to do their final exam grading. However, when the doors to the toilets began being locked, then that was the last straw. No one can be spotted on campus for these 2 weeks now.
Oh, and lest you think this is only in the academic world, I have been told by many that during the full week between Christmas and New Year's, all the shops, cafes and such will be closed as well.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Television License
In Ireland, if you own a television, then you must pay a 150 euro per year fee. Simply for having one in your home--and there are officials who come knocking on your door to come inside and see if you have a t.v. with no license.
It is managed by the postal company, and here is a quote from their website explaining it:
"Under the current Wireless Telegraphy Legislation it is a prosecutable offence to be found in possession of an unlicensed television set. Fines for an unlicensed television set can be up to €635 for a first offence."
Actually, any equipment capable of receiving a television signal (using an aerial, satellite dish, cable or other means) must have a television license. So if you have the capability on your computer to receive such a signal, then you must pay. If you move homes, then you must have the address on your license changed.
Why? Well, it has something to do with the public service broadcasting delivered by RTE, the national broadcasting organization. I guess instead of being like PBS having telethons to raise money in the US, here the government requires you to fund the service. You can Google it if you're really interested in finding more about it, I'll leave the research to you.
It is managed by the postal company, and here is a quote from their website explaining it:
"Under the current Wireless Telegraphy Legislation it is a prosecutable offence to be found in possession of an unlicensed television set. Fines for an unlicensed television set can be up to €635 for a first offence."
Actually, any equipment capable of receiving a television signal (using an aerial, satellite dish, cable or other means) must have a television license. So if you have the capability on your computer to receive such a signal, then you must pay. If you move homes, then you must have the address on your license changed.
Why? Well, it has something to do with the public service broadcasting delivered by RTE, the national broadcasting organization. I guess instead of being like PBS having telethons to raise money in the US, here the government requires you to fund the service. You can Google it if you're really interested in finding more about it, I'll leave the research to you.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Bank Security
I haven't written in a long time about the banks here, though the topic dominated many of my earlier posts. Well, today I was reminded that one doesn't just walk easily into a bank. There are three doors. You press a button to enter the first door into a small enclosed area. You must wait for the door to shut behind you, followed by 3 seconds until the white light comes on in the next button in front of you. You press it and then either a red "wait" button is lit, or a greed "enter" button is lit. Then you enter into the next identical enclosed area and repeat this process in order to enter the bank.
Yes, the Irish are serious about their bank security! So much for the friendly welcoming patterns of the US banks, where coffee and treats are waiting for the customer...
Yes, the Irish are serious about their bank security! So much for the friendly welcoming patterns of the US banks, where coffee and treats are waiting for the customer...
Monday, October 29, 2007
Bank Holiday and Dublin Marathon
Today was a bank holiday. Not really celebrating anything in particular, just a reason for a break. (I guess when the US needs these, they tack on some meaning, such as Labor Day, President's Day, etc...but the Irish don't need a reason for good "Craic"!)*
It always falls on the last Monday of October. Actually, it's become sort of a Halloween holiday, not officially, but the timing is so near. Students (or "pupils" as they call them here) get the entire week off for mid-term break.
It's also the day that the adidas Dublin City Marathon is always held. Since I haven't trained for the race but wanted to be involved, I volunteered to "marshal" the spectators near the finish line. (I also got an awesome adidas running jacket and cap.) I've never been at the finish line of a race like this in time to see the winners. I'm either running in it, or watching a friend run somewhere else. So it was fun to see the elite runners cruise across the finish line, the first man at 2:09:07, first lady at 2:29:20. (Both were Russians...I could create a pun with that, but I won't...) It was a gorgeous day, not a cloud in the sky, and about 50 degrees.
Anyhow, seeing the look on the runners faces, looking into their eyes, was a powerful experience--there was a gradual change in the demeanor of the persons crossing as the time passed. I saw victory, focus, pride, amazement, weariness, pain, fear, laughter at the absurdity of what they've done, misery, sickness, weeping, dazed and confused, delirious, more pain. Regardless, each person who crossed that finish line is undoubtedly a transformed person after the training and accomplishment fulfilled today.
* Craic is Irish for "fun, enjoyment, light-hearted mischief".
It always falls on the last Monday of October. Actually, it's become sort of a Halloween holiday, not officially, but the timing is so near. Students (or "pupils" as they call them here) get the entire week off for mid-term break.
It's also the day that the adidas Dublin City Marathon is always held. Since I haven't trained for the race but wanted to be involved, I volunteered to "marshal" the spectators near the finish line. (I also got an awesome adidas running jacket and cap.) I've never been at the finish line of a race like this in time to see the winners. I'm either running in it, or watching a friend run somewhere else. So it was fun to see the elite runners cruise across the finish line, the first man at 2:09:07, first lady at 2:29:20. (Both were Russians...I could create a pun with that, but I won't...) It was a gorgeous day, not a cloud in the sky, and about 50 degrees.
Anyhow, seeing the look on the runners faces, looking into their eyes, was a powerful experience--there was a gradual change in the demeanor of the persons crossing as the time passed. I saw victory, focus, pride, amazement, weariness, pain, fear, laughter at the absurdity of what they've done, misery, sickness, weeping, dazed and confused, delirious, more pain. Regardless, each person who crossed that finish line is undoubtedly a transformed person after the training and accomplishment fulfilled today.
* Craic is Irish for "fun, enjoyment, light-hearted mischief".
Friday, September 14, 2007
Computer, part III
The technician contacted the maker of the motherboard (AMD) and retrieved the 5 necessary drivers needed, so now my machine is working! Yea! Now I'll just spend another 2 hours downloading and installing all my programs and things will be just grande.
Computer, part II
I got a message this afternoon from the computer technician who has been working on installing Windows XP on my machine, which reads, "Dell seems to have locked down your PC model to only run Vista. I will call you later to update you."
Oh boy. Dell must have really signed a tight agreement with Microsoft.
So I'm left with a computer that now is not running XP completely, nor Vista.
It's looking like I'll have to get Vista back and suffer with little mathematical software until those folks create updates to be compatible with Vista.
Meanwhile, I'll go back to my trusty pencil and paper and calculations of cryptographic sizes by hand...
Oh boy. Dell must have really signed a tight agreement with Microsoft.
So I'm left with a computer that now is not running XP completely, nor Vista.
It's looking like I'll have to get Vista back and suffer with little mathematical software until those folks create updates to be compatible with Vista.
Meanwhile, I'll go back to my trusty pencil and paper and calculations of cryptographic sizes by hand...
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Computer
Okay, this isn't an encounter that is uniquely Irish...but it's something I've been dealing with nevertheless.
Three weeks ago I was given a brand-new Dell computer for my office, with Windows Vista. Uh-oh...I was skeptical about the new Vista, but sure, I'd give it a try. So I spend several hours downloading and installing the software I need for my research. Turns out, several of the packages aren't compatible with Vista yet. (In particular, I really needed to use MikTeX for my presentation last week...) The university has a software client that allows users to access the university's many applications...but that client is not compatible with Vista. So the university gives me a machine that it doesn't support??
I called IT Services, they put in a request to have Windows XP installed on my machine. In the meantime, I couldn't do much work on the computer, both because I didn't have the programs, and because I knew everything would get wiped off when they reformat it for the different operating system.
A week later I got an email saying they don't have a license to distribute Windows XP by disc. I replied that I didn't want a disc, I simply wanted them to come over and install it on my machine. A few days later they replied warning me that all my files will be deleted. I replied that I'm aware of that, which is why I'd like this to get taken care of as soon as possible so I can get to work. A few days later they replied asking what my current RAM is, what the hard disk space is, and what the operating system is--this annoyed me, as clearly in my emails that were quoted below in their reply, I had already explained that my operating system was Vista and I needed XP, blah blah blah. Okay, so the next day I get a reply that they are going to have to transfer this request to another building/service in order to get resolution. What??
So yesterday I made some calls to the IT Services of the School of Mathematical Sciences (instead of the university IT folks), to see if they could help. The answer was they have no license to install XP, and they were already familiar with the compatibility problems of math software with Vista, but there's nothing they can do, except offer me Linux. Oh boy. Now Linux is indeed powerful and what a hardcore mathematician/computer scientist would use... But then the IT folks warned me that they offer no support for Linux--"if you are good enough to use Linux, then you're good enough to not need any help." Well, I used Linux for 6 years getting my Ph.D., but I'm not an expect so I think I'll still with Windows...
Finally, today a university IT guy came to my office and said he could install XP, and it would take about an hour. Yea! So I piddled around, trying to occupy myself...but soon 3 hours passed, and he was having trouble getting on the network. Evidently it's missing some drivers needed to get on the network (i.e. no Internet). So he calls Dell, and they say he must put Vista back on, as it's not designed to have XP. What?? The guy hangs up, tries some other things, nothing works, so he says he will call Dell back and insist...
In the meantime, I went home, still without a computer working...
Three weeks ago I was given a brand-new Dell computer for my office, with Windows Vista. Uh-oh...I was skeptical about the new Vista, but sure, I'd give it a try. So I spend several hours downloading and installing the software I need for my research. Turns out, several of the packages aren't compatible with Vista yet. (In particular, I really needed to use MikTeX for my presentation last week...) The university has a software client that allows users to access the university's many applications...but that client is not compatible with Vista. So the university gives me a machine that it doesn't support??
I called IT Services, they put in a request to have Windows XP installed on my machine. In the meantime, I couldn't do much work on the computer, both because I didn't have the programs, and because I knew everything would get wiped off when they reformat it for the different operating system.
A week later I got an email saying they don't have a license to distribute Windows XP by disc. I replied that I didn't want a disc, I simply wanted them to come over and install it on my machine. A few days later they replied warning me that all my files will be deleted. I replied that I'm aware of that, which is why I'd like this to get taken care of as soon as possible so I can get to work. A few days later they replied asking what my current RAM is, what the hard disk space is, and what the operating system is--this annoyed me, as clearly in my emails that were quoted below in their reply, I had already explained that my operating system was Vista and I needed XP, blah blah blah. Okay, so the next day I get a reply that they are going to have to transfer this request to another building/service in order to get resolution. What??
So yesterday I made some calls to the IT Services of the School of Mathematical Sciences (instead of the university IT folks), to see if they could help. The answer was they have no license to install XP, and they were already familiar with the compatibility problems of math software with Vista, but there's nothing they can do, except offer me Linux. Oh boy. Now Linux is indeed powerful and what a hardcore mathematician/computer scientist would use... But then the IT folks warned me that they offer no support for Linux--"if you are good enough to use Linux, then you're good enough to not need any help." Well, I used Linux for 6 years getting my Ph.D., but I'm not an expect so I think I'll still with Windows...
Finally, today a university IT guy came to my office and said he could install XP, and it would take about an hour. Yea! So I piddled around, trying to occupy myself...but soon 3 hours passed, and he was having trouble getting on the network. Evidently it's missing some drivers needed to get on the network (i.e. no Internet). So he calls Dell, and they say he must put Vista back on, as it's not designed to have XP. What?? The guy hangs up, tries some other things, nothing works, so he says he will call Dell back and insist...
In the meantime, I went home, still without a computer working...
Phone
Now, in the midst of those computer hassles, my office phone still doesn't work.
Again, three weeks ago, I asked why I cannot dial out, and they say I should be able to dial within the university, but I have to apply to call outside the university, as there is a charge for each call. And extra-special permission/signatures are required to be able to call mobile phones. Okay, fine, right now I'd simply like to be able to call within the university, as I need to call IT Services for my computer...
So I filled out the application, etc., and the telephone services said it's all taken care of. Well, turns out, I can receive calls, but still cannot make calls. Their switchboard or whatever says my line is active and ready, but I'm telling them it doesn't work. We've been going back and forth on this the past 3 weeks as well...and to this day it is not fixed.
Meanwhile, since I can receive calls, I figure I should set up my voicemail. Well, after many attempts, I learn that I must send in an application. Gee, I have to apply for absolutely everything here, which means at least 24 hours goes by before anything can get done...
So, now I do have voicemail, but a phone that doesn't work...
Again, three weeks ago, I asked why I cannot dial out, and they say I should be able to dial within the university, but I have to apply to call outside the university, as there is a charge for each call. And extra-special permission/signatures are required to be able to call mobile phones. Okay, fine, right now I'd simply like to be able to call within the university, as I need to call IT Services for my computer...
So I filled out the application, etc., and the telephone services said it's all taken care of. Well, turns out, I can receive calls, but still cannot make calls. Their switchboard or whatever says my line is active and ready, but I'm telling them it doesn't work. We've been going back and forth on this the past 3 weeks as well...and to this day it is not fixed.
Meanwhile, since I can receive calls, I figure I should set up my voicemail. Well, after many attempts, I learn that I must send in an application. Gee, I have to apply for absolutely everything here, which means at least 24 hours goes by before anything can get done...
So, now I do have voicemail, but a phone that doesn't work...
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Broadband-in-a-box
My Broadband-in-a-box arrived today! Wow, this is the fastest anything has been done around here! I ordered it on Friday and the "courier" brought it this afternoon. This is the coolest thing, simply plug in the small signal box into an outlet, plug in the ethernet cable to your laptop, and you're good to go. I can simply tote the box into whatever room I want to sit in and be online, and I never had to purchase a phone line or cable television. Do we have this in the States??
Monday, August 27, 2007
Banking, part III
My Code Card arrived in the mail. Okay, I need to modify what I wrote in the previous post (Banking, part II). This card is not generic. Rather, a portion of the instructions brings a strange clarity: "For security reasons, your Code Card has a limited life- each code can be used just once. But don't worry, you will automatically receive a new code card in the post as you approach the end of each card."
So here's the deal. Whenever I want to make a phone or internet transaction, I will be asked to look at my Code Card and give the long number that is next to the short number that they prompt me with. The card contains 100 possible prompting numbers, and each one can only be used once.
My immediate reaction is to figure out how the short numbers correspond to the long numbers. What I mean is, whenever the operator prompts me for the longer number, how does he/she know I'm giving the correct code? Since each customer of this bank in all of Ireland has 100 code numbers, and these only have only one life, surely they are not keeping some database of all these numbers? Rather, I imagine that there is some system of associating long number to short number so that the operator can tell whether it is a legitimate pair, without actually needing to know the entire number. For example, if she prompts me for a general number "abc", perhaps the number "x" I give should be such that "a+b" is the first digit, "|b-c|" is the second digit, the third digit denotes the sign of "b-c" (1 for positive, 0 for negative), etc. Okay, maybe it's not quite like that, but you get my point? I wonder what the system for generating these codes is...it's certainly not random. Perhaps this will be my entertainment on my bus commute to work each day, to discover the pattern...
No, not really, I've got better things to do and people to watch.
So here's the deal. Whenever I want to make a phone or internet transaction, I will be asked to look at my Code Card and give the long number that is next to the short number that they prompt me with. The card contains 100 possible prompting numbers, and each one can only be used once.
My immediate reaction is to figure out how the short numbers correspond to the long numbers. What I mean is, whenever the operator prompts me for the longer number, how does he/she know I'm giving the correct code? Since each customer of this bank in all of Ireland has 100 code numbers, and these only have only one life, surely they are not keeping some database of all these numbers? Rather, I imagine that there is some system of associating long number to short number so that the operator can tell whether it is a legitimate pair, without actually needing to know the entire number. For example, if she prompts me for a general number "abc", perhaps the number "x" I give should be such that "a+b" is the first digit, "|b-c|" is the second digit, the third digit denotes the sign of "b-c" (1 for positive, 0 for negative), etc. Okay, maybe it's not quite like that, but you get my point? I wonder what the system for generating these codes is...it's certainly not random. Perhaps this will be my entertainment on my bus commute to work each day, to discover the pattern...
No, not really, I've got better things to do and people to watch.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Banking, part II
I went to the bank to ask for a brochure about account fees and such. The lady gave me a card with my 8-digit registration number that I’ve been waiting for in the mail. She said this is really the important thing to carry, more so than the debit card (though it’s not clear to me why…) She told me to call to register my card and to ask for a “code card” which will come in 4 days. The code card lists 100 code numbers which label larger numbers. This is for security: at various interactions in the future, the banker may ask me what is 055, for example. So then I give the longer number next to it. Somehow this is to give added protection…why another person can’t use their code card, since it’s generic and not unique to my account, I’m not sure. I asked about the various numbers on my debit card, and she said the number I give when a service requests it is the small 7-digit number at the bottom. I asked what the 19-digit larger number is for, and she said it is just for the machines to track the bank and account. Okay, well, it still seems to me that the card number the human eye needs to read should be a bit larger and more central.
I then called to register my debit card. The recording asked for my 8-digit registration number. Then for my PIN number. Then it asked for the 4th digit of my 5-digit Personal Access Code (PAC), then for the 2nd digit of my PAC, then for the 3rd digit. Does this not seem a bit odd?? Once this was done, the recording said that since this was my first time to use the phone banking, I would need to speak to a customer service representative. So the guy got on the line and asked for my 8-digit registration number. Then for my PIN. Then for my name, address, and the last 4 digits of my phone number. Then he asked for the 2nd digit of my PAC, then for the 5th digit, then for the 4th digit. (What is up with this?) He said everything is checking clear, so now he can tell me more information.
He said I should never be asked for the full 5 digits of my PAC at one time, only for 3 digits, in a non-sequential order. (I’m wondering if this really helps with security…?) Then he said he’d mail me a code card, so I should wait for its arrival in around 4 days. In the meantime he said I should change my PAC number to a different 5-digit number that I can remember and tell no one. He would call the phone service and stay on the line with me and walk me through the procedure. So the recording comes on the line asking for the service code, to which the guy says I should turn over my registration card, where the service codes are and choose 07, as this is the option for changing my PAC number. Before I could do this, I had to enter the 3rd digit, 1st digit, and 4th digit of my current
So I made my first “lodgment”—simply give them my debit card and the money, and it’s done (no need for a deposit slip). On the one hand, there are so many security measure and complicated protocols, then on the other hand, it seems quite simple.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Debit Card
Recall: I applied for a bank account two weeks ago, then one week ago was told that my account is ready and that my debit card and further information will be sent in the mail this week, by Wednesday (today). Indeed, I have received 4 letters. One contained my debit card. Another my cheques. Another the PIN number. Another the PAC (personal access code). These private passwords are not typed, they are hidden behind a sticker that you must peel off, then place the paper against a white paper and see through this screen to discover a secret code that becomes visible. Jeepers, such lengths they go to for protection...yet they didn't require me to put any money in the account to open it, no minimum balance for it to exist.
Anyhow, I excitedly went online to order my broadband, so that process would be in motion. Where it asks for the card number, I typed the predominant number on the card--the 19 digit, large size number sprawled across the front. An error came up saying it was invalid. I tried again. Same error. (By the way, I think it is a bit unusual to have a 19 digit number...this is prime, not divisible by anything, hence not conducive to writing it in 3 blocks of the same length...why not have 18 digits? 3 blocks of 6...)
So I examined the card more closely and found a smaller size number--both in length and font--at the bottom of the card. 7 digits. Indeed, it was labeled "card number." So I typed it. Again an error that this is an invalid card number. Hmmm. There is also another 8-digit number on the card, but I had already learned that this is the bank routing number, so I didn't try it.
Then it dawned on me that I hadn't activated the card yet, so perhaps that was the problem. So I called the activation number listed with my letters for the PIN and PAC. The recording prompted me to input my 8-digit registration number. What the heck is that? I frantically looked through the letters for another number, counted the numbers on my debit card, nothing corresponded to this registration number needed. So after failed attempts, I was connected to a live voice, who was a bit stern as if I was trying to use a card that isn't my own.
She asked my 8-digit registration number, to which I responded "yes, what is that??" She said it should arrive in the mail in the next few days. So I am back to waiting on The Irish System...
Meanwhile, I took advantage of this live person to ask about the "card number" I should type in for online purchases. She said it is the small 7-digit number at the bottom of my card. I asked what the larger, 19-digit number is, and she didn't know. Rather interesting, yes?
Anyhow, I excitedly went online to order my broadband, so that process would be in motion. Where it asks for the card number, I typed the predominant number on the card--the 19 digit, large size number sprawled across the front. An error came up saying it was invalid. I tried again. Same error. (By the way, I think it is a bit unusual to have a 19 digit number...this is prime, not divisible by anything, hence not conducive to writing it in 3 blocks of the same length...why not have 18 digits? 3 blocks of 6...)
So I examined the card more closely and found a smaller size number--both in length and font--at the bottom of the card. 7 digits. Indeed, it was labeled "card number." So I typed it. Again an error that this is an invalid card number. Hmmm. There is also another 8-digit number on the card, but I had already learned that this is the bank routing number, so I didn't try it.
Then it dawned on me that I hadn't activated the card yet, so perhaps that was the problem. So I called the activation number listed with my letters for the PIN and PAC. The recording prompted me to input my 8-digit registration number. What the heck is that? I frantically looked through the letters for another number, counted the numbers on my debit card, nothing corresponded to this registration number needed. So after failed attempts, I was connected to a live voice, who was a bit stern as if I was trying to use a card that isn't my own.
She asked my 8-digit registration number, to which I responded "yes, what is that??" She said it should arrive in the mail in the next few days. So I am back to waiting on The Irish System...
Meanwhile, I took advantage of this live person to ask about the "card number" I should type in for online purchases. She said it is the small 7-digit number at the bottom of my card. I asked what the larger, 19-digit number is, and she didn't know. Rather interesting, yes?
Friday, August 17, 2007
Working hours
It seems offices and services to not open until 9:30 or 10am here. What's a gal to do for the 3 good hours before then? (I guess go for a run...) Then they close early, no later than 5pm. For example, as I mentioned in an earlier post, the banks are open 10:30am-4pm. Receptionists and administrative personnel at the university do not arrive until 9:30. Coffee shops close at 5pm. (Very strange for someone from the US, where coffee shops are the places a person can depend on to stay open late for people to work or meet and socialize.) It appears that people here do not let work dominate their lives...and certainly don't let it encroach on their enjoyment time at the pubs!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Broadband
There are three ways of getting internet access here: through the phone-line, via cable tv, or "broadband-in-a-box." I'm opting for the latter. See www.irishbroadband.ie. However, to order this, one must provide either an Irish credit card or an Irish debit card, neither of which I have. Once this is provided to them, they say it takes approximately 2 weeks for them to clear it with the bank, and then one week for the broadband-in-a-box to be delivered. So I am left waiting on the Irish system to progress through the loop once again...
Banking
I went to the bank last week and turned in my application along with the letter verifying my employment and address of residence...they said it was not necessary to deposit any money, which I find a bit odd, but oh well. They said my application had to go to the money laundering office and it would be several days before it got processed, so I should come back then to get my account number.
So yesterday I returned, but they said the letter was not suitable, as it stated my employment as starting on Sept. 1, so they cannot open an account until then. But they said if I got the letter revised such that that sentence was simply deleted, then it would be fine. So I did this...but then bank here is only open from 10:30am-4:00pm, so I had to wait until today to provide the modified letter. Then after waiting a few hours, I was told that everything was approved, so I should expect my personal access code, debit card and cheques (basically everything I need in order to make use of this account...I can't wire money from the US until I have the personal access code) to arrive by post the middle of next week.
Meanwhile, they do not offer credit cards until you have an account with them for 3 months. So I'm stuck with using my US credit card that has a 3% foreign transaction fee, and my US ATM card that charges a fee every time I withdraw money...
So yesterday I returned, but they said the letter was not suitable, as it stated my employment as starting on Sept. 1, so they cannot open an account until then. But they said if I got the letter revised such that that sentence was simply deleted, then it would be fine. So I did this...but then bank here is only open from 10:30am-4:00pm, so I had to wait until today to provide the modified letter. Then after waiting a few hours, I was told that everything was approved, so I should expect my personal access code, debit card and cheques (basically everything I need in order to make use of this account...I can't wire money from the US until I have the personal access code) to arrive by post the middle of next week.
Meanwhile, they do not offer credit cards until you have an account with them for 3 months. So I'm stuck with using my US credit card that has a 3% foreign transaction fee, and my US ATM card that charges a fee every time I withdraw money...
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Office Computer
I was given a nice new computer in my office, but when I tried to use it, a login password was required. I asked about this, and a colleague said I must first send in an application and wait 24 hours to receive my userid and password. Then I must register the physical computer itself and wait another 24 hours before I am up and running.
However, the application asks for my personnel number, which I do not have because I am stuck in the loop of the Irish System, waiting on my PPS number and bank account information so that I can officially be employed by the university and get a personnel number...
So, I'm left waiting...and waiting...difficult for one who is more of an initiator/proactive person!
However, the application asks for my personnel number, which I do not have because I am stuck in the loop of the Irish System, waiting on my PPS number and bank account information so that I can officially be employed by the university and get a personnel number...
So, I'm left waiting...and waiting...difficult for one who is more of an initiator/proactive person!
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