Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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We are making progress on the number of missions, which is welcome, but not on their staffing. They remain very lightly staffed in comparison with missions of similar sized states in similar countries. Many of us would have had reason to contact various embassies. When you get through to our staff, they are always incredibly helpful. The difficulty is often getting through in the first place. Most operate a very limited period for taking telephone calls because in most instances there is only a small number of staff available to man the lines. Is that being reviewed?

Programme A6 allocates an additional €42 million to the European peace facility which is attributed largely to Ukraine. We know the level of spending across the EU has been astronomical in many respects and with good reason because of what is happening in Ukraine. However, when we talk about this level of expenditure, it would be useful to get the Tánaiste’s analysis on the current status of the conflict and where precisely Ireland’s funds will be directed. Has the Tánaiste a view of any proactive measures the Government can take to bring an end to the war?

On programme B, the passport service is a service which when it works well, it works very well. Many people will have a very positive experience of renewals, in particular. However, as I have told the Tánaiste many times, when it does not work well or when people encounter problems, there is scope for improvement particularly when it comes to urgent need rather than emergency need. While there are considerations, I do not think it is appropriate or healthy that people have to contact politicians, which they do, and then we get in touch with the Passport Office which is incredibly helpful in that case. There should be a very easy to understand, accessible to everybody, urgent passport system in place for those who need it, whether it is due to their own mistake, negligence or whatever.

Also in that respect, does the Tánaiste believe it was an omission by the Government that no steps were taken during its term to establish an additional Passport Office in the North? There is a demand for it. It would be a very welcome development and would expedite and enhance the passport Service overall. Does the Tánaiste believe this is something the next government should pursue?