Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

My Department is implementing a new passport issuing system. This involves the introduction of a new passport booklet and a complete upgrade of the systems and work processes for handling passport applications. When fully implemented, Ireland will have one of the most advanced and secure passport systems in the world.

As part of the development of the new system, it is intended to make provision for citizens to make on-line passport applications in the sense of transmitting their personal information across the Internet. However, they will still have to submit their photograph and signature and supporting documentation to establish their identity to the Passport Office by post or by hand. It is also proposed to enable citizens to check on-line the status of passport applications already submitted. These facilities should be available later this year.

In the longer term, my Department will discuss with the Reach agency the arrangements for providing a complete on-line passport application service, whereby passport applications could be submitted in full through the public services broker which would provide the level of authentication of identity necessary for the Passport Office. The timetable for the provision of this service will depend on the further development of the public services broker which is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs.

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