WARNING: Passport delays could lead to people missing holidays abroad

People planning their summer holidays have been warned to give themselves plenty of time if they have to renew or order a new passport, or risk missing out on their trip abroad. 

Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú told the Irish Independent that the volume off applications - "could lead to people missing holidays or whatever else".

Deputy Ó Murchú said: “People are finding when their documents are uploaded that there seems to be an issue in relation to getting it through checking. I don’t know if the question arises as to whether there are enough checkers.

The Passport Service of the Department of Foreign Affairs has advice on how to get your passport renewed as quickly as possible, and also provides an urgent appointment service.

The department website states: "If you require the renewal of your passport quicker than the normal turnaround times you can apply for your passport using our Urgent Appointment service. 

"Appointments are available at our public offices in Dublin and in Cork," it outlines. 

However, first time applications cannot be made using an Urgent Appointment. The quickest way to apply for the first time is to use Passport Online.

The passport office also urges people to not attend their public offices unless you have made an appointment.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin recently said getting a new passport can take some time, and urged people to make sure they have renewed in plenty of time before your holiday starts.

Mr Martin said: “I would encourage anyone who is considering travel this summer to check that their passport is in date, and to use Passport Online if they need to renew their passport or apply for the first time. Passport Online is the fastest and most convenient way to apply for your passport”.