Fine Gael Dublin Central Senator, Paschal Donohoe, has said the people who are attempting to have passport applications processed today (Tuesday) must not be prevented from doing so because of the fact that the passport office on Molesworth Street has been closed due to flooding.
Senator Donohoe went on to say that the Department of Foreign Affairs must ensure that adequate emergency contingency plans are put in place so that those who are hoping to have passport queries dealt with can be facilitated in doing so.
“The scene outside the passport office in Molesworth Street office this morning really was a sight to behold as people became increasingly tense and panicked about the status of their applications.
“The public’s efforts to obtain new passports or have out of date ones renewed have been seriously thwarted in recent weeks owing to ongoing industrial action. However the complete closure of the Molesworth Street office this morning because of floods has understandably sent people into an emotional tailspin.
“With St. Patrick’s Day upon us and the Easter break just a couple of weeks away people are understandably anxious about application renewals and planned travel arrangements.
“Emergency passports are being issue by the Department from Iveagh House. However, what might be an emergency for the person hoping to visit an infirm relative may not be considered as such by departmental officials.
“Some empathy needs to be shown here. Minister Martin must stay in close contact from the U.S. with his officials to ensure that the appropriate measures are put in place to deal with this crisis situation at home. People must not be prevented from carrying out their travel and holiday plans this or any other week because of a few inches of water in Molesworth Street.”