Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
517. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to increase staff in the passport office to deal with the backlog of applications that have mounted during Covid-19 restrictions (details supplied). [21944/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the National Framework on Living with COVID-19, the Passport Service continues to provide a high-quality essential service in line with Government measures to reduce social contact and combat the spread of COVID-19.
This essential service is available for those who are required to travel due to the death or serious illness of a family member or have compelling reasons for travel as defined in the recent amendment to the Health Act 1947, which came into effect on 1 February 2021. Supporting documentation is required in such cases.
Applicants who require an urgent or emergency passport can contact the Passport Service via our Customer Service Hub Webchat function on our website.
Irish citizens who are resident overseas should continue to contact the Passport Service through the local Irish Embassy or Consulate General who continue to provide assistance to all our citizens abroad.
The Passport Online system has improved the ability of the Passport Service to process applications more efficiently. The full return of Services will commence with applications received via Passport Online. The Passport Service is confident, taking into account measures to ensure a safe workplace, that application on hand can be cleared in six to eight weeks.
There is no requirement, at this time, to allocate additional staff to the Passport Service. Similar to all work places, social distancing is required so this limits the occupation of buildings but my Department has been working closely with the Office of Public Works on this matter.
