Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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139. To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to launch additional promotional campaigns in respect of the timeframe for new and renewal passport applications due to the increasing number of applications and delays occurring; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10943/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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In general terms I and my Department use all available opportunities to highlight the targeted turnaround times for different categories of passport and to promote good practice including in public statements, media engagements and in the Houses of the Oireachtas. The passport portal on the website of my Department, www.dfa.ie/passport, contains comprehensive guidance and advice to applicants.

Different categories of passport require different turnaround times – for example first time applications take longer than renewals because additional anti-fraud measures are involved.

The advised turnaround time for passport renewals through Passport Express is 15 working days. For first time applicants, we advise a turnaround time of 20 working days.

As a matter of good practice, we advise applicants to check the validity of their passports in advance of booking travel, to ensure passport application forms are correctly completed and any relevant additional documentation is included. Those with no immediate travel plans should allow six weeks’ for a passport application to be processed in case any difficulty arises with the application. Please note that the validity periods for children’s passports are shorter than those for adult passports. The Passport Service offers a free reminder service and we invite citizens to please register for an email reminder to ensure people are aware that they need to apply for a new passport (www.eforms.gov.ie/en/reminder/passport/).

There are different ways to apply for a passport and it is important to ensure that the correct channel is used. Applicants travelling in less than 15 working days (renewals) and 20 working days (first time applicants) should make an appointment at the Passport Office in Dublin or Cork. There are a limited number of appointments available and applicants are required to show proof of travel. Appointments can be booked online (www.passport.ie).

Passport Express is the most cost effective and efficient means of applying for a passport and is available in post offices throughout Ireland.

There is currently a high volume of passport applications in the system and the Passport Office is focussed on ensuring the turnaround targets are met. In 2016, 87% of Passport Express applications were processed within these targets. There is also a link to the turnaround times on the An Post website.

A process of Passport Reform is underway and I hope to introduce a new adult online renewal system in the near future. This will mean a more efficient service for applicants.

In the meantime I would ask that the Deputy and all Members of the Houses join with me in promoting good practice.