Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs & Trade Niall Collins TD has said that Brexit is influencing the number of people applying for an Irish passport as new figures reveal the number of first-time passport applicants from Great Britain and Northern Ireland has soared in recent years.
Deputy Collins said, “It is evident that Brexit is having a significant impact on the number of people applying for an Irish passport. In 2014 there were 5,672 first time applicants from Great Britain. However, as of the 30th June this year, that number had soared to 31,099. That represents a fivefold increase in first-time applicants.
“Similarly, in Northern Ireland there were 18,067 first time applicants for an Irish passport in 2014 compared to 47,645 people having applied by the 30th June this year.
“Having an Irish passport is considered an asset. Indeed, the Irish passport was recently ranked sixth place globally when it comes to passport power. The impact of the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union and the loss of all associated benefits is obviously weighing on people’s minds and influencing their decision to apply for an Irish passport.
“Given the ongoing political instability in the UK I would expect that the number of first-time applicants will continue to rise as we move towards the 31st October and a potential no deal Brexit’.
