Irish passport: now we want one more than ever

As if Ireland were not enough in itself, Brexit - Britain's departure from the European Union (EU) - saw a surge in those claiming Irish heritage as a way to stay part of the EU. And now this.... As the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says: "Inspired by Ireland’s landscapes, heritage and natural world, the new passport takes holders on a journey through the Irish year, celebrating the habitats, wildlife and cultural traditions that shape life on this island. Developed with input from more than 15,000 people through a public consultation, the design features native flora and fauna, Celtic-inspired artwork, and motifs influenced by Newgrange, alongside some of the most advanced passport security technologies in the world. All passports issued from 26 June will feature this new design – a passport that is modern, secure and distinctly Irish". The item feaures the following landscapes: Cliffs of Moher; Upper Lake Killarney; Dublin Mountains; Lough Dan Lake, Wicklow; Newgrange; Torc Waterfall Killarney; Rossnowlagh Beach, Co. Donegal; Finn River, Monaghan; Benbulben; Lough Namanlagh, Co. Donegal; Lough Doon, Co. Donegal.

Keywords: New Irish passport, Ireland, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Ireland, foreign travel, Irish passports, artists Denise Nestor and Ailbhe Cronin