Opel Zafira key needed

Hi to all,

My wife has just purchased a 2003 Opel Zafira 1.6 and it came with only 1 key and we would like to get another one (including the 2 button key fob) for it. The thing is that the zafira is used 6 days per week in her role as a child minder and the only places that I can find in Ireland will need the existing key for 24/48 hours to reproduce another key so I am now looking for somewhere that will produce a key without having to give them the only one we have.
Is it possible to get a key made from just the VIN number or reg number?
Opel want a small fortune to supply one and I know that in the UK it is a Vauxhall but all the parts are the same as far as I can make out.

Also, the key we have for it wont operate the central locking via the fob but will open the doors manually. I have tried reprogramming it by turning the ignition to position 2 (lights on) and holding down the 'lock' button but no go. Can any one shed light as to why it wont reprogram? (A new battery has been fitted and the red led lights up when either of the two buttons on the fob are pressed)

Thanks in advance to all for your help and advice have a safe,peaceful and happy Christmas,
Yours
patdoll