Wolfhound features on new 'unmistakably Irish' passport

The Government has unveiled the next generation Irish passport featuring updated security technology and artwork inspired by the country's natural environment.

Travellers will still be issued with the familiar burgundy passport, but inside there is a fresh new design celebrating Ireland's landscapes, wildlife and natural heritage.

The passport was designed in collaboration with Irish companies and artists, and reflects the changing seasons across Ireland through native wildlife, flora and landscapes.

Many of the featured designs were chosen by the public, with more than 15,000 people taking part in a nationwide consultation.

The Irish wolfhound, one of the public's favourite selections, appears throughout the passport.

The redesigned passport also supports Ireland's sustainability ambitions through new production techniques and environmentally friendly security inks.

It includes enhanced security features designed to protect against fraud and forgery.

Several of the features are being used in a passport for the first time anywhere in the world.

Officials say it is part of the continuing modernisation of Ireland's passport service.

The Irish passport is used by millions of Irish citizens at home and abroad.

Officials say the new design will begin appearing in passports issued through the Passport Service from today, while existing passports will remain valid until their expiry dates.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee said the new passport "combines some of the world's most advanced security technology with a design that proudly reflects who we are as a nation, our heritage, creativity and natural beauty.

"Together with Irish companies and artists, we have created a travel document that is both technically outstanding and unmistakably Irish."