Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 December 2017
55. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report to Dáil Éireann on the backlog of passport applications to be processed; the number of persons with dual UK and Irish citizenship applying for an Irish passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53039/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraBetween 1 January and December 7 this year, the Passport Service received 781,716 passport applications, which represents a 12.4% increase over the same period last year. There are currently 29,652 applications in progress. These are applications that are going through the normal checking process rather than a backlog.
While the volume of applications in progress remains high, the turnaround time for applications submitted through Passport Express for first-time applications, renewal applications and applications for renewal of lost, stolen or damaged passports remains at 15 working days . Applications received through Online Passport Application Service can be processed more quickly, with current turnaround times of approximately 5 working days.
The fact that target turnaround times for Passport Express renewal and first-time applications are being met despite the significant increases in volumes of applications in the year reflects the hard work and professionalism of Passport Service staff. Service improvements, such as the introduction of the Online Passport Application Service that launched this year, have also made a major contribution to the effective management of these exceptionally high volumes.
Tracking of applications is in general carried out against method of application. The Passport Service does not compile data on any other citizenships that an applicant may hold. In order to meet the requirements of the Passports Act 2008, each applicant must demonstrate an entitlement to Irish citizenship in their application. Entitlement to Irish citizenship is governed by Irish law and in particular, the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. Irish citizens are not prohibited from holding foreign citizenship in addition to their Irish citizenship.
For the period January 1 to December 4 this year, the number of passport applications received from applicants living in Great Britain was 66,054, with 69,094 coming from applicants living in Northern Ireland. This compares with figures of 48,765 and 61,104 respectively for the same period in 2016. My Department continues to closely monitor the level of passport demand to ensure that all resources, including staffing, are effectively deployed.
