Written answers

Tuesday, 24 May 2016

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Passport Applications

Photo of Mattie McGrathMattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

353. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the reason for the delay in passport applications on the grounds that applicants have not submitted a public services card, although they have submitted other photographic identification such as a driving licence; why he is specifically requesting the card where other photographic identification is available and has been submitted and where applications are not from first-time applicants; why he requires the card, given that a large number of persons do not yet hold it; if he has informed the public of the need for it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11659/16]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Since 29 March 2016, my Department has required all first-time passport applicants who are resident in Ireland and are over eighteen years of age to hold a valid Public Services Card.

This new requirement also applies to the small number of adult applicants whose last passport was issued prior to 1 January 2005 and which is now reported as lost, stolen or damaged.

The measure is an important step in the fight against fraud and identity theft, and in our overall efforts to protect the integrity of the Irish passport. It will ensure that the identity of first-time applicants for Irish passports is further verified to a high standard.

The Public Services Card is used increasingly as an efficient and secure means to access government services including social welfare services and for the purposes of free travel. Already over 1.8 million PSCs are in circulation.

This new requirement was announced by my Department on 10 March and received extensive press coverage. Information notices have been posted in the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork, as well as in Department of Social Protection offices, to advise customers they will be required to present a Public Services Card when applying for a Passport. These information notices were also circulated to all Garda stations. Additionally my Department’s website advises first time applicants of the requirement for this card and answers frequently asked questions.

This new requirement to hold a valid Public Services Card dispenses with previous photo identification requirements for passport purposes such as a certified copy of a driving licence or college identification. It also dispenses with the requirement for proof of name.

Where a person does not currently have a Public Services Card, they can get one through a secure process of face-to-face registration at the offices of the Department of Social Protection. Customers will have to produce relevant documents to complete the PSC registration. An online appointment booking service is available at

I would underline that the new measure applies only to first time adult applicants and in cases of passports issued before 1 January 2005 which are lost, stolen or damaged. It does not apply in the case of applications for renewals of passports or to applications for children.

The indications so far are that this year will see a significant increase in outbound travel from Ireland. I would take this opportunity to encourage applicants to check their passport validity before they book their travel. If a new passport is needed, then it is best to apply at least six weeks in advance of the intended travel date. It is particularly important to keep an eye on the validity for children’s passports as it is shorter than for adults.

When renewing passports, applicants should select the service which will have their passports returned to them in time for travel. For people travelling in three weeks or more, the Passport Express Service operated by An Postremains the cheapest and most convenient way to apply. For those travelling in less than three weeks, an appointment should be made at the Passport Offices in Dublin or Cork through the Passport Service webpage.

The Deputy, or applicant, may wish to contact the Passport Service, (Ms. Liz Finn, Head of the Molesworth Street Passport Office) to discuss the specifics of this individual case.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.