Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2013
104. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the alternatives that are in place for a person in need of an emergency passport and needing to make the application in person in the Passport Office when there are no available appointments on-line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27158/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraEmergency passports permitting travel abroad are issued only in circumstances where the Passport Service is satisfied, on the basis of the application and supporting evidence, that: the proposed journey is related to the death or serious injury or illness abroad of a close relative or a medical emergency relating to the applicant him/herself; and the presence of the applicant at the foreign location in connection with such an unexpected event is necessary or highly desirable; and the need to travel has arisen at short notice.
In such situations of genuine and unforeseen urgency an applicant will be seen immediately upon presentation at either the passport office in Dublin and Cork. No appointment is required.
Additionally, my Department provides a Duty Officer Service outside normal office hours to deal with matters requiring immediate attention, including the issue of passports in such circumstances.
