The Passport Service is currently in its peak season for passport demand with the vast majority of applications being received between February and August each year. So far this year, the Passport Service has received over 500,000 applications. Applications received in the first 5 months of this year have increased by over 8% compared with the same time period last year. The Passport Service is currently processing over 63,000 passport applications. These applications are going through the normal checking, processing and security stages. My Department has an extensive communication strategy to promote good practice amongst passport holders when planning to travel abroad. We regularly advise applicants of 3 golden rules: - to check the validity of the passports in advance of booking travel;
- to apply at least 6 weeks in advance of their travel plans; and
- for eligible adults renewing their passport to consider the Online Passport Renewal Service passport application online facility, which is a fast, secure way for adults renewing their passport.
We promote these and any other relevant messages through various means - the Passport Service website, social media platforms, press releases, posters and leaflets, video material, radio interviews with the Director or staff of the Passport Service and attendance at numerous promotional events.
Regularly updated information on current average turnaround times can be consulted my Department’s website www.dfa.ie/passport. Links to website information on turnaround time are regularly posted on the Passport Service’s various social media channels. Information on available passport services; comprehensive guides to the various application processes and an online tracker that allows applicants to track the status of existing applications at any time can also be found on this website.
In addition, the Passport Service continues to work closely with Communications Unit of An Post to ensure that information on turnaround times disseminated by An Post staff is accurate and up-to-date.
The Passport Service makes every effort to respond to as many applicant queries as possible. In recent weeks, the Passport Service has allocated additional resources to the existing Communications Unit. The Communications Unit is a dedicated customer service team that processes applicant queries received via its phone, email and webchat communication channels. Measures take to improve responsiveness include the assignment of TCOs and the redeployment of experienced staff from across the Department to this unit and the use of targeted overtime.
My Department will continue to work hard to promote important messages relating to passports. I am satisfied that the promotional strategies currently used are the most cost-effective way to reach a wide audience. I am grateful to Deputies for their continued assistance in advising constituents to submit their application in good time before their planned travel date and to consult the Passport Service’s webpage on my Department’s website before applying.
