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

-----in the advertising process because they are still a big part of the medium, particularly in rural Ireland. They should be used in the advertising campaigns. That campaign should be under way from early January because people are careless about checking whether their passport is in date.

The committee previously raised the question of whether the Passport Office could devise a system whereby a text message could be issued six months in advance of a passport being due for renewal, for example. Reminders are issued by motor tax offices and other statutory agencies. I acknowledge it is a person's own responsibility to keep his or her passport up to date, but many people do not regard it as a priority. A reminder system would be very helpful and eliminate some of the necessary work that arises when people apply at the last minute.

The additional funding for the Brexit-ready campaign is very important. Since the British general election campaign got under way, Brexit has featured far less frequently in our vocabulary than was previously the case. It was previously mentioned every hour of the day. We want businesses and communities to remain alert and aware that the issues have not gone away. Even if Britain leaves at the end of January, there will be a transition phase and negotiation of the trade agreement, future relationships and so on.

Regarding that public campaign and asking businesses to prepare for all eventualities, it is important that that message is kept out there and that every support is still given to businesses and enterprises, particularly in the Border region, to prepare for the worst-case scenario as well. Of course, we hope the worst-case scenario will not arise and that Britain will negotiate a good deal with the European Union in the best interests of the remaining 27 member states and Britain. It is particularly important for all our island. I therefore ask that the Brexit campaign to which the Minister of State referred be continued with the best momentum possible until the whole issue is off the agenda and finalised.