49. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if her attention has been drawn to the delays in processing a first-time passport application (details supplied); the actions she will take to ensure that it is processed in a timely manner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61635/26]

With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, this application was cancelled at the request of the applicant on 21 August 2026. The Passport Service subsequently refunded the passport fee on 24 August 2026.