Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 144: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals to include further information on Irish passports (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9410/09]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The person in question has proposed the inclusion of details regarding illness on a passport. The current Automated Passport System (APS) does not cater for this and its inclusion would require a major redesign of the passport system and booklet. There would be a significant cost involved which would be difficult to justify against the backdrop of the current economic constraints.

I will however, keep this proposal in mind for consideration in future developments of the system. In order to reduce the risk of difficulties while travelling the person in question may wish to consider obtaining a letter from his general practitioner regarding his illness and explaining why it is necessary for him to carry medication and equipment.