Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will turn to income accruing under appropriations-in-aid, which is referred to as Programme F. The total income under appropriations-in-aid in 2019 is estimated at almost €45 million, a marginal decrease on 2018. The primary source of income, which accrues directly to the Exchequer from my Department, comes from passport application fees and accounts for over 90% of all appropriations-in-aid receipts. Passport, citizenship, visa and other consular fees are set by way of statutory instrument issued under section 3 of the Diplomatic and Consular Officers (Provision of Services) Act 1993. The figure may be higher but €45 million is the figure agreed with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The figure was higher last year and it will probably be higher again this year but it is the figure that has been recommended.