Irish passport holders can now renew online

Irish Citizens who are over 18, and have held an Irish Passport can now apply for their Passport Book and/or Passport Card online.

You will need a digital photo, but more information on how to do this is available online.

The service said: "If you have already applied through Passport Express or your Irish Embassy/Consulate you cannot apply online as this will delay both applications."

Mid Ulster SDLP councillor Malachy Quinn has commended the move.

He said: "Great news the Department of Foreign Affairs has introduced a new online system for renewing your Irish passport.

"It's a quick and convenient system at the following link: https://www.dfa.ie/passportonline/

"Also anyone applying for a NEW passport or for a juvenile (one) still need to use the paper Passport Express Service and I am always happy to witness passports just send me a private message or email [email protected]"