Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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198. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the way an Irish national who is imprisoned in the UK can apply for and acquire a first passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1887/15]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The Passports Act 2008 provides that only Irish citizens may obtain Irish passports. Each applicant must therefore provide documentary evidence that demonstrates his/her entitlement to Irish citizenship and which verifies his/her identify.

In general, first time applicants should provide the following:

- a completed and suitably witnessed application form and photographs;

- an original long form birth certificate and a civil marriage certificate if appropriate;

- any other evidence of Irish citizenship where applicable;

- additional photo identification;

- documentary evidence to show use of name;

- evidence of residency at the applicant’s postal address.

More details in regard to the documentary requirements are available on the Department’s website

In terms of Irish citizens in prison in England and Wales or those in Scotland, they may write to the Embassy of Ireland in London or the Consulate in Edinburgh respectively for confidential advice and assistance in regard to their specific situation. However, it should be noted that in situations where passports are issued to persons in prison, these are sent in the care of the Governor’s office for safekeeping, as appropriate, until the person’s release.

The contact details for the Embassy and Consulate are as follows:

Embassy of Ireland

17 Grosvenor Place

London

SW1X 7HR.

Consulate General of Ireland

16 Randolph Crescent

Edinburgh

EH3 7TT.