Wolfhound features on new 'unmistakably Irish' passport

The Irish wolfhound features prominently on the newly designed Irish passport, following a public consultation.

The passport, launched by Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee, is described by the Government as "one of the world's most advanced travel documents".

The artwork is inspired by Irish heritage, history and culture, with designs chosen by the public.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said that 15,000 people took part in the consultation, which identified the Irish wolfhound as a favourite.

It said the passport uses environmentally friendly security inks and new production methods.

"It 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," Ms Entee said.

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

The document gives Irish citizens visa-free access to 186 countries, and is available now.