Young people warned 'don't use your passport as ID in holiday hotspots'
The holiday season is well and truly here, with thousands of us heading abroad in the next few weeks for sunshine and fun.
With the Leaving Certificate students also heading abroad after the exams at the end of this month, to popular spots like Majorca, Ibiza and the Greek Islands, young people are being warned NOT to use their passports as forms of identification on nights out.
Most nightclubs and pubs in holiday hotspots will look for some form of ID from students, especially the ones lucky enough to look younger than they are. Pic: Getty Images
But there are many reports of passports lost or stolen every year, and the Department of Foreign Affairs is advising young people to carry a different form of identification, such as a student card or driving licence, on nights out, instead of their passport.
'We advise all Irish citizens travelling abroad to be mindful of their surroundings at all times and take the necessary precautions for their personal safety and that of their belongings.'
What should you do IF your passport is lost or stolen abroad? Pic: Getty Images
Speaking on RTE Radio 1's Claire Byrne Show, the Director General of the Consular and Passport service, Fiona Penollar, said: 'I know that many people have it (their passport) in their back pocket. It's so easy to lose it and then it can just be challenging and not just to have the passport but whatever visa was in it, whatever it's connected to, just adds layers of complication that you don't need.'
But if it happens and you do lose your passport abroad?
You MUST contact the local police in whatever country you are in and immediately inform the Passport Service in Ireland. They will report the details to Interpol and the passport will be marked as no longer valid for travel. Pic: Getty Images
If you report a passport as lost or stolen, DO NOT attempt to travel on it.
If your passport is lost, stolen or damaged while you are overseas and you need a travel document to return home, your nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate may be able to help.
Stay safe and have fun, but leave the passport in the hotel safe when you go out.
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