Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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As of March 20, the average turnaround time for renewal applications submitted through An Post Passport Express stands at 16 working days. Average processing times for all categories of passport application are updated regularly on the Passport Service’s website, www.dfa.ie/passportand reflect actual average turnaround time at the time of writing.

An exceptionally large volume of passport applications received in the first two months of the year, as well as knock-on effects from the severe weather conditions at the beginning of the month and the subsequent closure of the Dublin and Cork passport offices, have contributed to increased turnaround times. The Passport Service is working hard to minimise the impact on turnaround times and continues to closely monitor the level of passport demand to ensure that all resources, including staffing, are effectively deployed. Additional measures taken by the Passport Service include the recruitment of additional staff and the use of targeted overtime.

The target turnaround time for applications made via the award winning online passport application service is 10 working days plus postage. The vast majority of online applications are currently being processed within 7 working days, well ahead of target. At present, the online service only accommodates adult renewals and passport card applications. It is planned to further extend the online passport application service to all renewals by the end of 2018. I would urge applicants wishing to renew their passports, whether residing in Ireland or overseas, to avail of the online passport renewal service where possible.

The Passport Service operates an appointment service in both the Dublin and Cork offices where applicants who need their passport application processed in timeframes shorter than those offered by the Passport Express and online facility can be accommodated in certain circumstances. The appointment booking service for counter applications and detailed information on all application channels can be found on the Passport Service’s website, www.DFA.ie/passport. The Passport Service strongly advises all applicants to check their passport when making travel plans and to check the Passport Service’s website for the most appropriate channel through which to submit their application.