Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I refer to delays in passports in Carlow and Kilkenny. There are concerns, as others have said. When someone applies for a passport, one wrong tick can mean the application goes right back to the start. I know the staff are working very hard but I would ask that a system be put in place so that a small issue that can be addressed is addressed.

There have been loads of delays in my own area, including people who were unable to attend funerals and one family where two people could travel and one could not. I know that is being addressed. I seek clarity on the 1,000 new staff the Minister mentioned. How are they being recruited and what is happening? The last time we were here the Minister said 80 additional staff had been recruited. I want to know more. I welcome the recruitment of 1,000 staff; I am delighted. Can we have an update? I know the Passport Office is doing its best.

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