Madam, – I’m living in The Netherlands and recently applied to have my passport renewed. To my amazement it is still a requirement to have my signature and photograph witnessed by one of the following: police officer, member of the clergy, school principal/vice principal, judge/magistrate practising lawyer, accountant, medical doctor, bank manager/assistant manager, elected public representative.
In the light of recent events in Ireland I have certain reservations about the integrity of a number of these professions. I find it archaic and insulting that any of these professions are deemed more respectable than for example the person behind the cash desk at my local supermarket. In the Netherlands the signature of person applying for a passport is all that is required. Is it not time to rethink this requirement? – Yours, etc,