Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 210: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will introduce a reduced cost for Irish passports, both first time applicants and renewals, to people with a disability; when such a concession will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9042/07]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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In 2005, the Government decided that, building on the existing free transport, television licence, phone and electricity schemes for older people, passports should also be available free to persons aged 65 and over. This was warmly welcomed.

This innovative scheme works satisfactorily as there are clear and fixed qualifications for persons to benefit under it.

On the other hand, the introduction of a reduced passport fee for applicants with a disability would require the introduction of a complex administrative structure in order to adjudicate on the various levels of disability and ensure that any reduced charge would be fairly and equitably applied. The Deputy's proposal, therefore, is not a realistic option. I should also emphasise, as the Deputy will be very aware, that the Government's deep commitment to the disabled is already reflected in a range of supportive ways.