LRC chief offers to mediate in passports row

The Chief Executive of the Labour Relations Commission has offered his services as a mediator in the row which has led to a huge backlog in passport applications.

Foreign Affairs Minister Michael Martin has welcomed the offer from Kieran Mulvey, saying he hopes it will now be possible to reach an early agreement with the Civil Public and Services Union (CPSU).

"I want to resume quickly the service whereby any person about to travel can obtain a passport enabling them to do so," said the Minister.

"I believe this desire is shared by management and staff in the Passport Service and by the leadership and membership of the CPSU.

"On that basis, I am confident that agreement can be found on the arrangements and staff levels necessary to achieve this.”