Sharon Keogan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am sure no one here wants to hear the word “passport” again, express or otherwise. However, I would like to raise the issue of the Government cost of documents. At the time of a cost-of-living crisis, we should be looking at any and all areas where we can ease financial burden where people may be experiencing it.

The one fact that stands out when it comes to cost of Government documents is that they are not a discretionary expenditure. When it comes to groceries, people might be able to choose a different brand. When it comes to energy, perhaps a few euros can be shaved off a bill by switching provider. However, there is only place to buy a passport and a driving licence. It is €20 a pop plus €1.50 postage for a birth certificate, marriage certificate or a death certificate. It sounds like a threat of a loan shark: “You get married, pay me. You have a kid, pay me. You die, pay me.” Learning to drive is a real kicker too. The theory test is €45 and the provisional licence is €35. Government-mandated 12 lessons are €545. The driving test is €85 and a driving licence is €55. It is €765 before spending a cent on insurance, petrol or, indeed, the car itself. It is €75 for a passport and €100 if you want the card too, and an extra €5 for postage if you prefer not to do it online.

The bottom line is there many expenses the Government cannot affect, yet there are also expenses that only the Government can affect. Often, these are the ones that people have no choice but to pay. Perhaps we could look at those prices and see if the Exchequer could allow the people some breathing room when it comes to these mandatory expenses.

I thank Councillor Vincent Jackson for bringing this issue to my attention. I was happy to raise it here today in the Seanad for him.