Dept decides not to scrap fast-track passport system

The Department of Foreign Affairs has reportedly decided not to scrap the system whereby politicians can fast-track passport applications.

The system attracted controversy last year after it emerged that former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern had obtained a passport for Manchester businessman Norman Turner using the system.

The department subsequently announced a review of the situation and has sought the views of Oireachtas members over the past few months.

However, reports this morning say it has decided not to make any changes after representatives of Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Labour Party all lobbied for the system to be retained.