227. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade to provide a detailed breakdown with dates on the actions taken by the applicant and the processors on a passport application submitted by a person (details supplied); the reason that the application was cancelled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42353/26]

Passport applications are valid for six months for a number of reasons including International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations on the requirement for a recent photograph. ICAO is an intergovernmental organisation that develops policies and international standards for travel documents. This six month timeframe also ensures that a refund of the fees can be processed electronically where required.

With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, this application was incomplete and given that the validity of the application expired, the application was cancelled.

The Passport Service has been in contact with the applicant to assist them in making a new application.