30. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her views on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make statement on the matter. [60561/26]

All passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008 (“the Act”). The Act provides a legal basis for the various policies and practices that are applied by the Passport Service in the issuing of passports.

Section 10 of the Act provides that a passport will issue in the name of a citizen as it appears on his/her birth certificate or naturalisation certificate. However, a name change for a passport from that which appears on a person’s birth certificate is permitted under the Act in situations such as marriage, civil partnership etc. where civil, or legal documents are available to verify this change.

In cases where name change arises, other than by marriage or civil partnership etc., the Act requires evidence of the use of this new name over a two year period. The Passport Service requires two documents, from two different sources, which should date back at least two years from the date of the passport application. For a citizen who is a minor (under the age of 18), proof of usage can include school reports, medical card, or correspondence from their health care professionals (GP, dentists, etc.).

These rules seek to protect the integrity and security of the Irish passports against passport and identity fraud while allowing for genuine cases where name changes have occurred. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of security features within the book and the robust processes involved in its issuance.

The Passport Service has contacted the Deputy's office to offer assistance with the application.