Written answers

Wednesday, 22 February 2017

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Passport Applications

Photo of Tommy BroughanTommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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156. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when the passport express ten-day turnaround was increased to a 15-day turnaround; the action he is taking to address the current backlog; if he will embark on an information campaign to ensure that applications are submitted allowing for extra time for processing due to the backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8986/17]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The Passport Express service extended the target delivery date to 15 working days in May 2016 in response to the sustained increases in the volume of applications. An Post updated its printed and promotional materials and the website at that time to reflect the change and the website and communication materials of my Department were also changed. Information was also circulated to all Oireachtas members. It should be noted that the turnaround times which are advised, including those for the An Post Passport Express service, are not a service guarantee. The Passport Service website advises customers how to avoid the stress and inconvenience of having passport applications processed at the last moment. The key points are to:

- check the validity of passports before booking a holiday,

- remember that children’s passports vary in length of validity,

- as a matter of best practice, apply at least six weeks before the intended date of travel (passport applications can often be delayed if applications are incomplete and this timeframe allows for such an occurrence),

- choose the most appropriate application channel depending on the date of travel (this point is crucial),

- if travelling in three weeks or more (15 working days) the Passport Express channel is the cheapest and most convenient and cost effective option,

- if travelling in three weeks or less an appointment for the Passport Office in Dublin or Cork should be made online at www.passportappointments.ie.

To respond to the ongoing increase in applications and peak season demand, the Passport Service has recruited over 230 Temporary Clerical Officers to assist with checking and processing applications and to deal with customer care queries, through the phones, email and other media channels. Over half of these Temporary Clerical Officers are now in place.

As part of the Passport Reform Programme, a new online service will be launched in the coming months for adults renewing their passport, whether based in Ireland or overseas. The introduction of an on-line service will result in reduced turnaround times and greater convenience for the customer as well as significant efficiencies for the Passport Service.

As part of the Passport Reform Programme, and prior to the launch of on-line applications, a communication campaign is planned to engage with citizens including to raise increase public awareness on the need to renew passports early.

All passport holders can register for a free passport renewal reminder service on my Department’s website:

www.eforms.gov.ie/en/reminder/passport/.

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