Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Dec 2002

Vol. 559 No. 5

Written Answers. - Passport Applications.

John Deasy

Question:

82 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consider changing the passport application system for persons applying for passports outside the State, to bring it in line with applications here; his views on the alarming increase in passport applications from outside the State and allegations that the present lax system allows people to travel on false documents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26452/02]

I do not see any reason to change the passport application procedures, which work well at present. While persons resident in the State are required to have their applications certified by a member of the Garda Síochána, a wider range of possible witnesses is provided for in order to facilitate persons resident outside the jurisdiction.

The number of passports issued has increased very significantly in recent years. However, the rate of increase in the number of passports issued outside the jurisdiction is in fact below the overall rate of increase. There is no evidence of an alarming increase in the number of passport applications from outside the State.

All passport applications are rigorously checked before they are issued. If the Passport Office staff are not satisfied with the evidence of identity provided by the applicant, they seek further information. All cases of suspected fraudulent passport applications are referred to the Garda Síochána for investigation.

Top
Share