Seán Ardagh (Dublin South Central, Fianna Fail)

I am inclined to disagree with the Minister in this regard. The problem is that currently our laws allow people to use the system to gain citizenship. I do not believe that the problem is the abuse by others of our weaknesses. The problem is our weakness and this is something we must address.

We are effectively debating citizenship today. We are debating the preciousness of citizenship and the value we put on it. Many contributors have pointed out that many rights and benefits are associated with citizenship. Citizenship also carries duties. The Minister referred to Article 9.2 which states: "Fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State are fundamental political duties of all citizens." Fidelity is defined as loyalty and steadfastness and the nation is the people who live in a country. Loyalty also means feelings of allegiance. The State is the whole body of people in Ireland who are united with one Government. We may not all like the one Government which is in power at any point in time but we accept it and have a loyalty to it.

The gift of citizenship should not be treated as a good or chattel which can be obtained by default and then used for the benefit of individuals in another ——

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