67. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if it is possible to travel to other European countries on a passport that is due to expire within six months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53104/26]

The validity required on an Irish passport for overseas travel depends on the location a person is travelling. For travel within the European Union (EU), a person's Irish passport must be valid up to their return date.

The passport validity required for countries outside of the EU, including countries in Europe that are not part of the EU, varies greatly. My Department recommends contacting the relevant travel agent or the embassy of the country the person is travelling to for the most up-to-date requirements.

My Department also publishes travel advice in respect of over 200 countries and territories. This advice provides an objective assessment of the risks our citizens might face while travelling, living, or working overseas, so that they can make informed decisions linked to their travel plans. Promoting this travel advice, including through social media and digital channels, is a key priority for my Department.

Further information can be found on my Department's website: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/know-before-you-go/passports-and-visas/

I would ask the Deputy to encourage their constituents to apply for their passports through Passport Online. The Passport Online service offers citizens the ability to apply online for their passport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In particular, those who are travelling this year, especially families with young children who require their first passport, should apply online and in plenty of time. The Passport Service advises citizens to ensure their passports are valid before booking holidays and travel.