Written Answers Nos. 327-350
329. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the progress that he has made in establishing a new national biodiversity data centre as a company limited by guarantee, subject to oversight by the Heritage Council, with a purpose to collect, record and maintain data on Ireland's biodiversity and make them available to the public. [24859/22]
View answerSince its inception in 2006, the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) has proven to be a very successful programme for the collation, storage, and dissemination of data on Irish wildlife. The current contractual arrangement, however, is no longer suitable for the delivery of a wide-ranging and complex service which requires flexibility, public engagement, and a long-term focus.
Following an independent review of the programme and the recommendations of a taskforce set up to determine the optimal scope, structure, and governance of the NBDC, Government approval was sought and granted last October to establish the NBDC as a company limited by guarantee (CLG) subject to oversight by the Heritage Council.
The taskforce is now considering the detail of the new company and will revert to Government in the coming weeks with proposals on governance, audit requirements, staffing, and the process for appointing a chairperson, members etc., as well as further detail on the functions of the new company and the proposed location. The taskforce is working to establish the CLG by the end of 2022 so that there is continuity of service for this vital programme.
330. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of staff allocated in each local authority to ensure compliance with solid fuel regulations in each local authority since 2018; the number of inspections carried out by each local authority in each of the years since 2018; the nature of the enforcement taken; the number of fuel samples collected and analysed for each local authority in each such year; if they complied with the regulations; if each local authority has reported annually to the Environmental Protection Authority as required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24876/22]
View answerUnder Section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authority for which he or she is responsible.
My Department oversees workforce planning for the local government sector, including the monitoring of local government sector employment levels. To this end, my Department gathers aggregate quarterly data on staff numbers in each local authority on a whole time equivalent basis.
However, granular data, in terms of the number of staff allocated in each local authority to ensure compliance with solid fuel regulations is not collected and consequently is not available in my Department. The relevant information should be available from each local authority.
Separately, my Department does not hold information in relation to inspections and enforcement by local authorities under the Air Pollution Act (Marketing, Sale, Distribution and Burning of Specific Fuels) Regulations 2012. Such information should be available from individual local authorities or the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
332. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the proposed changes he is considering to a revised repair and lease scheme in Ireland (details supplied); if private developers will be able to renovate and offer housing units that are in a state of distress and disrepair that would not otherwise be available to the housing market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24916/22]
View answerIncreasing the delivery of social housing is a priority for this Government. In this context, delivery mechanisms, including the repair and leasing scheme are kept under constant review.
Action 20.9 of the Housing for All plan commits to support local authorities to drive expanded take-up of the enhanced repair and leasing scheme. Further information on enhancements to the scheme will be available shortly.
333. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is considering proposals to restrict the lettings of full properties and second properties for the short-term letting market; if any such proposals would be in addition to the proposals contained in section 20.4 of the Housing for All plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24918/22]
View answerLegislative reforms to regulate the short-term letting sector through the planning code, in areas designated as “rent pressure zones” (RPZs), were introduced under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) (No. 2) Regulations 2019 which came into effect on 1 July 2019.
Notwithstanding the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, significant work on the implementation and enforcement of the Regulations has been undertaken by planning authorities since they came into effect.
The Government's new housing plan, Housing for All, contains a specific action (Action 20.4) - to “develop new regulatory controls requiring short-term and holiday lets to register with Fáilte Ireland with a view to ensuring that houses are used to best effect in areas of housing need”. Minister O’Brien has engaged with the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media to progress this action, and a number of meetings have been held between officials of the two Departments and with Fáilte Ireland, and further engagement is expected to take place in the near future.
Funding was allocated in Budget 2022 to Fáilte Ireland which has been tasked with the design and implementation of a new short-term lettings registration system. The agency is currently recruiting staff to work on this project, with the project lead in place. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is also presently scoping out the legislative provisions that will be required to underpin such a system with a view to bringing forward legislative provisions in this regard later in 2022.
In addition to this, my Department is presently examining various options to assist in meeting the urgent accommodation needs of those fleeing Ukraine and also in increasing supply in the private rental sector - including the possible diversion of properties from short-term letting to long-term private rental accommodation - to help meet current housing supply shortages in this area generally. As indicated, all possibilities in this area are being considered and will be further progressed as deemed appropriate.
334. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of his considerations in relation to extending the housing assistance payment scheme to Ukrainian refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24923/22]
View answerThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is leading the initial humanitarian response, including providing accommodation for persons arriving in Ireland from the conflict in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, my Department is focusing on the longer-term accommodation challenges and is leading cross-government efforts through a Housing Taskforce established by the Government for this purpose. All accommodation and housing options are being examined by the taskforce. These include medium-term delivery of rapid delivery volumetric accommodation; refurbishing and reconfiguring vacant buildings; and stimulating and accelerating construction of new permanent build homes.
While the Government continues to examine all options as part of its humanitarian response, including accommodation issues and appropriate responses to address these, there are no plans to extend availability of the Housing Assistance Payment to persons arriving in Ireland from Ukraine under the Temporary Protection Directive.
335. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when his Department received applications from Cork County Council for subsidy to support housing schemes for affordable provision in Clonakilty, Kinsale and Mallow, County Cork; when he expects to be in a position to make decisions with respect to these applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24927/22]
View answerDelivery of affordable housing, in accordance with the schemes set out in the Affordable Housing Act, 2021 and the funding being made available, will be underpinned by local authorities' Housing Delivery Action Plans. Local authorities, including Cork County Council, submitted their initial Plans to me in December. Preparation of the Plans allowed each local authority to assess the level of demand with affordability constraint in their area based on the Housing Need and Demand Assessment and plan provision accordingly. Cork County Council submitted a revised Plan to my Department last week. I expect that all revised Plans will be ready for publication by the Summer. They will provide a comprehensive national overview of projected delivery of affordable housing.
Funding is made available by Government to assist local authority and Approved Housing Body delivery of affordable housing, for purchase and rent, through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF), previously known as the Serviced Sites Fund, and the Cost Rental Equity Loan.
My Department received an AHF application in February 2022 from Cork County Council for AHF subsidy to support four housing schemes with affordable housing provision, two of which are situated in Clonakilty, with one each in Kinsale and Mallow. A number of essential clarifications on these applications were sought during the assessment process. The Housing Agency has advised my Department that their assessment of the eligibility of these projects will be concluded shortly.
336. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when a review of the income eligibility limits for social housing will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24932/22]
View answerI refer to the reply to question No. 75 of 5 May 2022 which sets out the position in the matter.
337. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of Ireland in relation to participation in EU battlegroups; the missions participated in by Ireland to date; if such missions require a UN mandate, approval by the Government and approval by the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24111/22]
View answerEU Battlegroups are multinational, military units which form part of the European Union's military rapid reaction capacity.
They are designed to provide the European Union with a rapid response capability which can be deployed in support of crisis management or humanitarian operations under the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy, and in support of United Nations mandated missions.
At EU level, the deployment of an EU Battlegroup is subject to a unanimous decision by the Council. Member States choose whether to participate and in which Battlegroup to seek to participate.
Ireland’s engagement in EU Battlegroups is part of our commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management. It supports the development of rapid deployment skills and capabilities within the Defence Forces, together with improved interoperability with like-minded States. Participation in EU Battlegroups supports Ireland’s international security and defence policy by helping to secure essential partners for future UN operations.
Ireland has previously participated in the Nordic Battlegroups in 2008, 2011 and 2015, the Austro/German led EU Battlegroup 2012, the German led EU Battlegroup in 2016, the UK led EU Battlegroup in 2016 and the German Led Battlegroup in 2020.
Any deployment of the Irish Defence Forces for overseas peace support, including as part of an EU Battlegroup, is subject to the “triple lock” requirement. This requires that the operation is mandated by the UN; that the deployment is approved by the Government; and, in cases of deployments over a dozen personnel, that it is approved by the Dáil.
To date, no EU Battlegroup has ever been deployed.
338. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of Ireland in relation to participation in permanent structured co-operation, PESCO; the missions participated in by Ireland to date; if such missions require a UN mandate, approval by the Government and approval by the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24112/22]
View answerThe objective of PESCO is to generate defence capabilities in support of the EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and which will be available to Member States for national and multinational (EU, NATO, UN, etc.) missions and operations. On a voluntary basis, 25 EU Member States, including Ireland, have joined PESCO and subscribed to commitments to invest, plan, develop and operate defence capabilities together within this EU framework.
Ireland's participation in PESCO was agreed by Government and approved by Dáil Éireann prior to the Council Decision establishing PESCO on 11 December 2017.
PESCO enhances the EU’s capacity as an international security actor, supports international peace and security and maximises the effectiveness of defence spending by participating Member States.
Participation complements and adds value to the work that the Defence Forces undertake when serving in operations. It enables them to further develop their capabilities in support of peacekeeping, through participation in joint projects with like-minded partners. Undertaking projects jointly also helps to reduce the costs of developing and procuring capabilities.
Ireland has been clear that we will only participate in projects that contribute to the strengthening of international security in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter, and the enhancement of capabilities for UN-mandated missions engaged in peace keeping or conflict prevention.
Sixty PESCO projects have been launched to date. Each project is managed by the participating Member States, with oversight from the Council.
Ireland is currently a participant in one PESCO project (the Greek led ‘Upgrade of Maritime Surveillance’) and also has observer status on a further nine PESCO projects (1) Deployable Military Disaster Relief Capability Package; (2) Maritime (semi) Autonomous Systems for Mine Countermeasures; (3) Cyber Threats and Incident Response Information Sharing Platform; (4) European Secure Software Defined Radio; (5) Military Mobility; (6) Energy Operational Function; (7) EU Radio Navigation Solution; (8) Counter Unmanned Aerial System; (9) Special Operations Forces Medical Training Centre.
While the capabilities developed under PESCO can be used in CSDP operations, the deployment of those capabilities on any given operation remains a matter for national decision making by individual Member States. Any deployment of the Irish Defence Forces for overseas peace support is subject to the “triple lock” provision. This requires that the operation is mandated by the UN; that the deployment is approved by the Government; and, in cases of deployments over a dozen personnel, that it is approved by Dáil resolution.
As a matter of policy under the current Programme for Government, participation in further PESCO projects by Ireland is subject to Government and Dáil approval.
339. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of Ireland in relation to participation in NATO’s partnership for peace; the missions participated in by Ireland to date; if such missions require a UN mandate, approval by the Government and approval by the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24113/22]
View answerIreland’s relations with NATO are set within the framework of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and Partnership for Peace (PfP).
The Partnership for Peace is a programme of practical bilateral cooperation between individual Euro-Atlantic partner countries and NATO. It allows partners countries to build up an individual relationship with NATO, choosing their own priorities for cooperation. Ireland became a member of the Partnership for Peace and its political counterpart, the Euro Atlantic Partnership Council, in December 1999.
Over the last two decades, participation in the PfP has been of significant importance in the development of the peacekeeping capabilities of the Irish Defence Forces and their interoperability with other potential peacekeeping contributing nations. Participation in PfP is fundamental to Ireland being able to keep abreast of developments in areas such as training, humanitarian aspects of peacekeeping and interoperability. It enhances the ability of our peacekeepers to work alongside those of our partners. It also enables us to share our own peacekeeping skills with a wide range of countries.
Furthermore, PfP also offers wider opportunities for cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity and efforts to tackle hybrid threats.
In addition to our engagement with NATO through PfP, Ireland has participated in a number of UN mandated NATO-led crisis management operations, including in Bosnia, Kosovo and Afghanistan. Currently there are 13 Defence Forces personnel deployed to the KFOR Headquarters mission in Kosovo.
Under the Defence (Amendment) Act, 2006 section 3(1)(b) and 3 (1)(d), the Defence Forces may, with the approval of Government, be dispatched outside the State for the purposes of conducting or participating in training or undertaking monitoring, observation or advisory duties. Any deployment of the Irish Defence Forces for overseas peace support requires that the operation is mandated by the UN; that the deployment is approved by the Government; and, in cases of deployments over a dozen personnel, that it is approved by the Dáil.
340. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding the passport office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24121/22]
View answerI and officials from my Department have welcomed opportunities to update Members on the Passport Service on several occasions since the beginning of the year. The Passport Service would be happy to arrange a further briefing for Oireachtas members on the current situation in the coming weeks.
On 2 February, I spoke at a Seanad Private Members Business Motion on the Passport Service.
On 10 March, I appeared before the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence to present the Estimates for Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and provided an in-depth briefing on the Passport Service.
On 22 March, my Department responded to a Topical Issue on the Passport Service.
On 6 April, officials from my Department appeared before the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence for an informal briefing on the Passport Service.
In addition to this, in three Oral Parliamentary Questions sessions this year to date, I have addressed Deputies' concerns about the Passport Service. My Department has responded to a total of 718 PQs on the Passport Service this year, with 200 answered so far in May.
341. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will be expedited for a person (details supplied). [24122/22]
View answer350. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will ensure that the passport application by a person (details supplied) will be processed as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24196/22]
View answer362. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo on time for a school trip in view of the fact that this application was received by the Passport Office on the 26 January 2022. [24416/22]
View answer365. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the passport card for person (details supplied) can be processed within timeframe. [24439/22]
View answer368. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the passport for a person (details supplied) will be expedited. [24455/22]
View answer369. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress that has been made to date in the determination of a passport application in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24461/22]
View answer377. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue on time for travel for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that this application was received by the Passport Office on 7 March 2022. [24627/22]
View answer379. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when supporting documentation submitted for a passport application in respect of an adult (details supplied) will be processed; and when the passport will be dispatched; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24635/22]
View answer380. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will ensure that the passport applications of persons (details supplied) will be processed urgently by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24637/22]
View answer384. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a child (details supplied) passport will issue in time for rescheduled travel date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24706/22]
View answer402. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if passports will issue to two siblings (details supplied) in County Mayo on time for their travel plans. [24749/22]
View answer403. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application for a child (details supplied) will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24758/22]
View answer405. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application by a person (details supplied) will be processed by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24791/22]
View answer406. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue for a child (details supplied) in County Donegal following the submission of a supporting document; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24795/22]
View answer407. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will be dispatched in time for a student (details supplied) to travel on their school tour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24825/22]
View answer418. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport for a minor (details supplied) received by the Passport Office on 29 January 2022 will be dispatched in time for their travel plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24860/22]
View answer419. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue for a person (details supplied) in County Clare, given that the passport was due to issue on 11 May 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24883/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 341, 350, 362, 365, 368, 369, 377, 379, 380, 384, 402, 403, 405 to 407, inclusive, 418 and 419 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputies have enquired, the Passport Service has provided an update on the status of the passport applications to the applicants.
342. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the delays in processing passport applications due to ongoing issues with confirming Garda witnessing (details supplied); his views on whether a central logging system is urgently needed to expedite the witnessing process, including by An Garda Síochána of passport applications; his plans to raise this matter with the Minister for Justice. [24133/22]
View answer351. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a circular or note can be sent to all Garda stations to remind same of the importance of completing passport application forms correctly to avoid errors and undue delays being experienced by applicants (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24216/22]
View answer352. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline the process for the verification of guardians form for passport applications which are signed in the Garda station; the reason the need to contact the gardaí when they have already signed and stamped the form; the difficulties that arise in verifying the form; the measures being introduced to improve the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24231/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 342, 351 and 352 together.
There are certain passport applications for applicants resident in Ireland that require forms to be witnessed by a member of An Garda Síochána. These applications include:
- All Passport Express applications - Section 9 Certificate of Identity
- First time adult online applications - Identity Verification Form
- First time child online applications - Child Passport Identity and Consent Form (Guardian A)
The witnessing of these forms is a vital element of the identity verification process for the Passport Service, as it provides initial assurance that the person in the photograph is the same person presenting to submit the passport application form.
In the case of an application for a minor the witnessing of this form provides evidence that guardians give consent for a passport to be issued to the child. In order to protect the integrity of the Irish passport and also the rights of parents or guardians and children, it is important that forms are correctly completed and verified by the Passport Service by calling the Garda station to confirm the Garda's signature.
It is stated in a note to the witness on the identity and consent forms that they may be contacted to confirm the validity of their signature. It is the responsibility of the witnessing Garda to ensure that the signature is correctly recorded in the logbook, so that when the Passport Service calls at a later date the signature can be verified.
There are a small number of cases where the Passport Service has difficulty contacting a Garda station in order to verify the Garda's signature. While the Passport Service makes every effort to contact the Garda station in these cases, unfortunately the passport application may be delayed. In some cases, the applicant may be requested to submit a new witnessed form where the Passport Service has been unable to contact the Garda station. The Passport Service will only request a new witness form after multiple attempts have been made to contact the Garda station.
A new document management system that was put in place at the beginning of March is ensuring that these applications which require further documents are being turned around within 15 working days of receipt of the additional documents.
It is not the experience of the Passport Service that failure to contact Garda stations to verify witnesses is a widespread issue.
The Passport Service is continuously looking at ways to make the application process easier for applicants and advises during the online application process to make sure that the identity and consent form is correctly witnessed once they have completed the online process.
The Passport Service provides instructions on how to correctly complete these forms on the Department's website (www.dfa.ie/passports/how-to-get-your-application-witnessed/) and is also working on public education materials, including video tutorials, with a view to assisting applicants to complete their application correctly.
In addition to this, the Passport Service maintains a close working relationship with An Garda Síochána and regularly offers training and guidance to Gardaí on the correct completion of the required identity and consent forms.
The Passport Service published a full-page informational advertisement in the April and May editions of An Garda Síochána’s magazine, the Garda Review, to assist Gardaí with the process of witnessing passport identity and consent forms. This advertisement includes the information that Passport Service will ring the Garda station to verify all first time passport applicants’ consent form details.
The Passport Service takes its responsibility to protect the integrity of the Irish passport very seriously. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of the security features within the passport book and the robust processes involved in its issuance. The Irish passport was recently ranked 5th in the Henley Global Passport Index as it provides our citizens with visa-free access to 187 countries.
There are no plans at present to amend the process for the witnessing of identity and consent forms by An Garda Síochána.
343. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there have been instances of overcharging for passports in 2022; if the error giving rise to this has been corrected; and if refunds are being arranged for those affected. [24135/22]
View answerThe Passport Service is currently receiving thousands of applications daily and is not aware of any issue with applicants being overcharged. On rare occasions, an application may encounter an error while information is being transferred from the external website to our internal systems. The Passport Service has a process in place to identify these applications within 24 hours of the applications being made and a refund is usually issued within 3 working days. The Passport Service encourages applicants who experience this technical error to re-apply for their passport with a new application, in the knowledge that a refund will issue in due course for the first application.
They can also contact the Passport Service Customer Service team via phone on 01.671.1633 or webchat on my Department’s website (www.dfa.ie/passports/contact/).
The Passport Service will contact the applicant referenced to confirm that a refund has issued. The Passport Service regrets any inconvenience caused to applicants who have encountered this error.
344. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason for specific advice (details supplied) being given to passport applicants or guardians and parents in the case of an application for a minor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24141/22]
View answerIn October 2021, the Passport Service established a temporary phone line to respond to Oireachtas Members' queries on urgent passport cases.
In each case raised by an Oireachtas Member, the Passport Service reviews the application in question. However, applications can only be expedited in cases of genuine emergency such as a need for urgent medical treatment overseas or the death of a family member abroad. Such applications are expedited through the Travel Emergency service.
In cases where the estimated issue-by date has passed and all required supporting documents have been submitted, the Passport Service will prioritise the application to ensure that no further delay is experienced.
When a query is raised by an Oireachtas Member about an application, a comment to this effect is saved on the applicant's file on the Passport's internal system.
When a passport applicant contacts the Customer Service Hub, the customer representative can access their file and provide a status update on their application. While accessing the file they may see that an Oireachtas member has contacted the Passport Service about the application. It is not Passport Service policy that applicants in these cases should be directed back to the Oireachtas Member for a status update. The Passport Service Customer Service team has reminded all customer service representatives that they should provide applicants with a status update on their application regardless of whether a query has been raised by a Member of the Oireachtas.
Passport applicants can also track the status of their passport application online via the Passport Tracker which is available on my Department's website - www.dfa.ie/passporttracking/.
345. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress that has been made to date in processing a passport application in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24153/22]
View answer347. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue for a minor (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24168/22]
View answer348. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue for a child (details supplied) in time for planned travel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24185/22]
View answer349. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will ensure that the passport application by a person (details supplied) will be processed as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24192/22]
View answer357. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress to date in the determination of a passport in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24352/22]
View answer359. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue on time for a baby (details supplied). [24376/22]
View answer361. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that this application was received in the Passport Office on 6 January 2022 and this person has imminent travel plans. [24408/22]
View answer363. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24433/22]
View answer366. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport is likely to issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24446/22]
View answer367. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress that has been made to date in the determination of a passport application in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24454/22]
View answer378. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue to a student (details supplied) in County Mayo who urgently requires it in view of the fact that this application was submitted to the Passport Office on 7 February 2022. [24631/22]
View answer383. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if passports will issue on time for child applicants (details supplied) travelling on 14 May 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24705/22]
View answer385. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a child (details supplied) passport application will process in time for travel date 20 May 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24707/22]
View answer386. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport will issue for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo on time for their travel arrangements to an important family event. [24710/22]
View answer390. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24726/22]
View answer392. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date and the families date of travel is imminent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24728/22]
View answer393. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date and the families date of travel is imminent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24729/22]
View answer394. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date and the families date of travel is imminent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24730/22]
View answer395. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24731/22]
View answer397. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24733/22]
View answer398. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24734/22]
View answer399. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24735/22]
View answer400. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) given that it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24736/22]
View answer408. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24828/22]
View answer409. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) as it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24829/22]
View answer410. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) as it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24830/22]
View answer411. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) as it has exceeded the target issue date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24831/22]
View answer412. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of a passport application by a person (details supplied) as the persons travel date is approaching; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24832/22]
View answer415. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport for an adult (details supplied) with a change of surname will be dispatched considering that it was received by the Passport Office on 9 February 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24843/22]
View answer416. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when passports will be issued to persons (details supplied) who submitted applications in January 2022 and who expected a date of issue on 22 April. [24851/22]
View answer417. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if passports will issue for children (details supplied) travelling on 18 May 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24853/22]
View answer420. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will examine a passport application for a child (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24886/22]
View answer422. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made in determining an application for a passport in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24919/22]
View answer424. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application by a person (details supplied) will be reviewed and expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24930/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 345, 347 to 349, inclusive, 357, 359, 361, 363, 366, 367, 378, 383, 385, 386, 390, 392 to 395, inclusive, 397 to 400, inclusive, 408 to 412, inclusive, 415 to 417, inclusive, 420, 422 and 424 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputies have enquired, the Passport Service has issued passports to the applicants.
346. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps that he is taking to support the development of democratic norms in Nicaragua; the steps that he is taking to urge the European Union to take a stronger stance against ongoing oppression; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24160/22]
View answerI am gravely concerned at the situation in Nicaragua. The human rights violations, crackdowns on opposition voices and independent media, and backsliding on democratic norms that have been observed in Nicaragua since 2018, and which have intensified since the November 2021 elections, are unacceptable and deeply alarming.
The expulsion of dozens of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) from the country, as well as the expulsion of international human rights bodies and the recent expulsion of the Organisation of American States, is also extremely worrying, and constitute further examples of Nicaragua’s withdrawal from the global rules-based order.
Ireland, along with our EU partners, has urged the Nicaraguan authorities to put an end to all repression and restore full respect for human rights, including by allowing the return of international human rights bodies and NGOs to Nicaragua, and to release political prisoners. We will continue to do so by all means possible, through our engagement in Dublin, at EU level, and on the ground through our Embassy in Mexico, which covers Nicaragua, and the EU Delegation in Managua.
In addition, Ireland fully supports the EU sanctions in place on various individuals and entities that are responsible for serious human rights violations in Nicaragua. Ireland is prepared to support any additional EU measures that are aimed at supporting democratic norms and human rights in Nicaragua and that do not impact negatively on the population.
From 2012 to 2021, Ireland provided just under €12 million in funding to Nicaragua, reflecting the solidarity of the Irish people with the people of Nicaragua. This funding focused on the areas of governance and human rights, gender equality, food security, nutrition and environmental sustainability, and was channelled through Irish Non-Governmental Organisations. Given the hostile situation towards NGOs in Nicaragua, discussions with partners in relation to the appropriate channelling of bilateral funding for 2022 are ongoing; funding is likely to target access to, and sustainable use of, natural resources, and tackle gender-based violence amongst Nicaraguan migrant women who have had to flee the country. We will also continue to support the EU development cooperation programme in Nicaragua.
I can assure the Deputy that we will continue working to support the people of Nicaragua however possible, and to support a return to democratic norms.
