9. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of passport books and cards issued to Meath applicants in 2024; the estimated number expected to issue in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4384/25]

Sentiment score: 0.06

I wish the Tánaiste well in his role as Minister for Foreign Affairs at this turbulent time. What was the number of passport books and cards issued to applicants from County Meath in 2024? What is the estimate for the number that is expected to be issued in 2025 and will he make a statement on the matter?

Sentiment score: 0.26

I thank the Tánaiste for his reply. As a councillor and now as a TD, like many others, a good percentage of queries I receive from constituents relate to issues with passports. It can be an emotive issue in a stressful time for them. We see a lot of criticism of public services, such as the Passport Office, but it has excelled in recent years and it is a different situation from the one we found ourselves in four years ago. The issuing of 1 million passports in 2024 is a huge milestone to mark. Does the Tánaiste have the current processing times, compared with 2022, for simple online renewals, for complex or child online renewals and for first-time applications online and through the An Post passport express service?

Sentiment score: 0.22