Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

In terms of the extension of the service this is subject to capital funding, and funding generally but I indicated on the last occasion that priority would be given to the north west because of the Northern Ireland demand and so on. I do not envisage anything beyond that in the medium term. Prior to the difficulties we have had, the passport service was working very well, the turnaround time was exceptionally good and customers were well served. I am confident we shall return to that.

In terms of the facility that was available for Members of the Oireachtas, as soon as things return to a more normal pattern I envisage that service returning as well. Members have been accommodated as much as humanly possible in emergency cases that they have brought to the attention of the passport office. As I said in my original reply, the prioritisation of those who have immediate emergencies will be accommodated within a three-day period. That again will meet many of the concerns and issues that Deputies have.

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