Former Minister for Justice and Defence Alan Shatter has confirmed a €12 expenses claim for passport photographs was for Ministerial purposes.

Mr Shatter made a visit to the Middle East in late 2013 in his capacity as Minister. This involved him undertaking engagements in Lebanon, Jordan and Israel including visiting Irish troops on various UN duties.

The photographs were required for a visa for Lebanon and the Minister was asked by Department officials to supply the photographs, and receipt for that purpose

It was initially reported that Minister Shatter made the €12 expenses claim for photographs for a passport - however in a letter Mr Shatter's legal representative says "it is now clear that the photographs obtained were not related to the acquisition of any passport."

Details of the expenses claim were originally released to the Irish Daily Star under the Freedom of Information Act.