Matt Carthy
Question:96. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the measures the WTE currently have within the passport service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10579/24]
View answerTuesday, 5 March 2024
Questions (96)
Written answers
The Passport Service is well-resourced to meet forecasted demand for 2024. My Department has implemented a staffing plan to ensure that excellent customer service is maintained throughout periods of peak demand and is continuing to work to increase resources within the service.
Adequate staffing of the Passport Service to respond to demand continues to be a priority for the Department in 2024 and is an issue that is kept under constant review. The Department has run over 20 competitions since 2021 to address staffing needs in the Passport Service and a competition for Temporary Clerical Officers in the Passport Office in Balbriggan is currently underway.
The Passport Service currently has a total of 804 staff (613 permanent staff and 191 temporary clerical officers). This total staffing number equates to 780 WTE when flexible working arrangements are taken into account.
2024 is expected to be another busy year for the Passport Service and the Passport Service is in an excellent position to meet the demand forecasted for this year.