Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

With regard to passports, we appreciate the help we get from both the Minister's office and the Passport Office when we have individual queries from constituents. I would like the cost of an emergency passport to be reconsidered. We have all heard of people who have to travel abroad because of a death in the family or an injury, or to pursue a job opportunity. The charge for an emergency passport is prohibitive. It should be reviewed and lowered substantially for people who have tight household budgets. Nobody is looking for an emergency passport for the fun of it; the individual needs it. I would like this matter to be revisited.

With regard to support for Irish emigrant services, I welcome the comments of the Minister of State, Deputy Deenihan, on the programme and its value and importance over the years to so many communities throughout Britain, the United States and farther afield.

Just before Christmas, we discussed the proposal by RTE to cease the longwave radio service to Britain. I am thankful there was a reprieve, and the service is to continue for a considerable period. I acknowledge that the Minister of State, Deputy Deenihan, and the Minister, Deputy Charles Flanagan, have pursued this matter, and I appreciate that. It was suggested that the shortfall in funding could be addressed by taking funds from those allocated for the emigrant support programme. I would not support that proposal. I want the longwave radio service continued, but RTE should fund it. The money should not be taken from a budget that is put to very good use by emigrant groups throughout the world. I hope the Minister will ensure that RTE continues to provide the longwave radio service, but not at the expense of the Department or through reducing the much-needed supports that certain emigrant groups are receiving. It is an issue for many communities in the Six Counties, including in the glens of Antrim and Armagh, and throughout Britain also. I appreciate what has happened. I would like a close eye kept on this issue to ensure the service will not cease.