Passport backlog creating ‘undue stress’
By Mary Dennehy
A LOCAL TD has this week raised the backlog and delay in processing passports, which is causing “undue” stress for many individuals and families.
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed to the Public Accounts Committee that so far this year, more than 27,000 applications have taken six weeks to process – while a further 22,000 have taken eight weeks or more to process.
As reported last week, the Department also stated that the past six months were the busiest in the history of the passport service.
As holiday season descends, Dublin South West TD, Sean Crowe this week raised the issue with the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney TD, in the Dáil.
Deputy Crowe stressed that the uncertainties and undue delays need to be eradicated when it comes to the passport applications process.
“My office has been inundated with request from constituents regarding the current delays in the processing of passports,” Deputy Crowe said.
Significant backlog
“There is a significant backlog in processing applicants and it is causing undue stress for citizens and families.
“The staff in the passport office are working hard during this busy and difficult time, but it is crystal clear that the office needs more investment and staff recruitment.
“There has been an 8 per cent increase in passport applications, with fears over Brexit obviously driving some of this demand.”
He added: “Many people who are having difficulties with their application complain that they can’t get a response from the passport office by phone, email, or on social media.
“The passport office is not effectively communicating the current the delays in processing passports.
“This is making matters worse and causing more anxiety, uncertainty, and fear for those trying to ensure they can travel on a well-earned holiday, for work, or some other important reason.”
He added: “I welcome that the Tánaiste agreed with my suggestion that communications for the passport office need to be updated so that people can be fully informed of any delays before and during the application process.
“The Tánaiste needs to urgently provide the passport office with the necessary resources it needs to clear this backlog.”
For further details visit https://www.dfa.ie/passports-citizenship/.
