16. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the staff numbers employed by the passport service in each of the years from 2020 to 2024, inclusive; the steps being taken by his Department to reduce the turnaround times for a decision on first-time and renewal passport applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4446/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

23. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of first-time and renewal passport applications received in each of the years from 2020 to 2024, inclusive; the number of applications approved and passports issued over the same period, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4449/25]

Sentiment score: 0.18

I want to congratulate the Minister and Minister of State on their appointments. I want to inquire about the staff numbers employed by the passport service in each of the years 2020 to 2024, inclusive, and the steps being taken by the Department to reduce the turnaround times for a decision on first-time and renewal passport applications. I would also like to know the number of first-time and renewal passport applications received in each of the years 2020 to 2024, inclusive, and the number of applications approved and passports issued over the same period.

Sentiment score: 0.44

I thank the Minister for his reply. I welcome staff increases and a reduction in the turnaround times for a passport. Many people have been in touch with me regarding passports during my time as a councillor and now as a Deputy. While things can sometimes be very touch and go in respect of whether people can travel on time, I have always found the passport service very accommodating when it can be. Does the Department hire additional staff at peak times of potential demand for passports, such as during Easter break or the summer holidays?

Sentiment score: 0.31

With a certain number of passports printed in the Passport Office in Mount Street, Dublin, and the majority processed in the printing facility in Balbriggan, is the Tánaiste considering the possibility of establishing another printing service in the Cork Passport Office? This would greatly benefit those attending the Cork Passport Office rather than the Dublin one and reduce the burden on the other offices in the capital.

Sentiment score: 0.22