Press release
Irish Wolfhound Takes Centre Stage In New Passport Design
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Foreign Affairs
Published on
Last updated on
The Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD recently got a preview of the first image of Ireland’s new passport design.
The initial drawings presented to the Tánaiste are the first steps in transforming public feedback into a new passport book design.
The Tánaiste said: “It was important to see first-hand how the design team is transforming the public’s input into a coherent passport design. The Irish passport is a vital document of the Irish State that provides citizens with visa-free access to 192 countries. This redesign is fundamental to maintaining the integrity and reputation of the Irish passport worldwide.
“As well as seeing the initial designs, I was also delighted to meet Boánn, the majestic wolfhound, who has inspired some of the intricate artwork that will feature in our next generation passport.
“The Irish wolfhound was the most popular animal chosen by the public in our recent public consultation, and will feature prominently in our new passport. We share this island with a rich variety of plant life and a diverse range of animals and I look forward to seeing future design concepts as they progress.”
Wil Byrne, Secure Document Designer at AG2 said: “It is a pleasure to showcase some of the early high-security artwork for Ireland’s next generation passport. The public's insights, Ireland’s rich variety of flora and fauna, and a range of complex security features are all being incorporated into the new design. Our overall shared ambition is to ensure the Irish passport remains a world leader by creating the most secure and visually appealing passport for Irish citizens.”
The Tánaiste concluded by reminding citizens to check their passport: “I would encourage anyone who is considering travel over the Easter break or this summer to check that their passport is in date, and to use Passport Online if they need to renew their passport or apply for the first time. Passport Online is the fastest and most convenient way to apply for your passport.”
Caption: Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin TD with Denise Nestor (Illustrator), Wil Byrne (Secure Document Designer at AG2) and Irish wolfhound Boánn. Credit: Phil Behan, Department of Foreign Affairs
Caption: Early draft sketch of the Irish wolfhound for inclusion in the next passport.