Michael Cahill
Question:297. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a passport application can be expedited (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2304/26]
View answerTuesday, 13 January 2026
Questions (297)
Written answers
All passport applications are subject to the provisions of the Passports Act, 2008 (“the 2008 Act”). Under Section 14(1) of the Act, the consent of a child’s guardian(s) must be given before the Passport Service can issue them a passport.
In order to protect the integrity of the Irish passport and the rights of the child and their guardian(s), it is important that the Child Identity and Consent form is correctly completed, witnessed and validated by the Passport Service for both first time and renewal applications for children. Guardians must be present to the person acting as a witness.
In cases where further supporting documents are required from the applicant, every effort is made to let the applicant know as soon as possible. The Passport Service has a system whereby applications do not go to the back of the queue following a request for further documents. When the Passport Service receives the required additional documentation from the applicant, the application is prioritised for checking.
With regard to the Deputy's query, the supporting documents for this application was received by the Passport Service on 15 December 2025. Another Child Identity and Consent form was requested by the Passport Service on 24 December 2025. This was received by the Passport Service on 31 December 2025. The application is currently queuing to be re-examined by the Passport Entitlement team. Therefore, this application is within the turnaround time.
I would ask the Deputy to encourage their constituents to apply online, well in advance of their travel date, for the quickest, cheapest and most efficient service.