Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 April 2016
615. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide a passport rapid renewal service in the Cork Passport Office (details supplied); if he will apply regional balance and equality of access to this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5862/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Passport Office introduced a same-day rapid renewal service in 2014. This facilitates customers who have urgent, emergency travel needs. This service is only available for renewal applications and is offered in the Passport Office in Dublin. The printing of passports requires specialised production equipment which is not available in Cork. Therefore a same-day service cannot be offered through that office. However every effort is made by the Passport Service to meet a travel date in cases of genuine urgency. Beyond the rapid renewal service, the passport service offers a three working days service in both the Dublin and Cork Passport Offices.
