High demand in Mayo this year for new passports

A total of 8,234 passports issued to Mayo applicants already this year, according to Deputy Keira Keogh.

All families are being urged to check their passport expiration dates before travelling and apply for renewal early, she said.

“Up to 8,234 passports have been issued for Mayo already this year and overall, 600,000 have been issued across the country, it’s lovely to think that most of those people were excited to get on a plane after planning a nice trip.

“However, my office has already had over 30 requests this year from people who suddenly discovered a passport issue at the worst possible time.

"It can be very distressing if you are packing for a family trip, or worse, if there’s a sudden family funeral abroad, only to realise last minute that one of the passports is out of date.

“Anyone planning on travelling over the next few weeks should apply for their passport online well in advance of their holiday departure date.

“The best time for citizens to check their passport’s expiry date is before booking their holiday. If you have already booked flights, it’s important to check now if your passport is in date.

“To renew or apply for a new passport use Passport Online. It’s the quickest, easiest and most cost-effective way to apply.

“I want to thank the staff at the Passport Service for all their hard work, particularly over the last few months.

“I’d also like to remind any citizens living in Ireland who need to renew their passport urgently in advance of travel that they can avail of the urgent appointment service available at the Passport Offices in Dublin and Cork.

“When you’re booking your holidays be prepared and make sure your passport is in date, when you arrive in another country, make sure you know the local laws, customs abs cultures.

"Keep your phone charged, share your locations on nights out and stay connected with friends and family and having travel insurance is advised,” added Deputy Keogh