Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Minister, Deputy McEntee, I thank the Senator for raising this matter in the Seanad today. He has described this as a social inclusion measure. We absolutely need to aspire to be more socially inclusive. As he said, citizenship ceremonies are wonderful events. I know that our new citizens cherish being part of them. They are a day to acknowledge the journey that has brought them to Ireland, where they have made a home. New Irish citizens undertake to faithfully observe the laws of the State and to respect its democratic values. Each new citizen makes a declaration of fidelity to the Irish nation and loyalty to the State. New Irish citizens are contributing to a diverse and inclusive workforce, bringing a range of skills and talents that enhance the overall capabilities of the labour market and economy. That is exactly the point the Senator made in his introduction. Over 10% of those who received their citizenship at the most recent ceremonies are now working in the healthcare sector across Ireland.

I am assured by the Department that the current application process is robust. All applicants are required to meet minimum periods of reckonable residence before they can apply. Applicants must also satisfy the good character criteria under section 15 of the Act, which includes checks for criminality.

With regard to citizenship ceremonies, as the Senator noted, we will have two ceremonies on 10 and 11 June, in the INEC, Killarney and the following week, on 20 and 21 June, more ceremonies will be held in the Convention Centre Dublin. Invitations to these ceremonies have begun to issue to successful applicants. I am informed that efforts have been made to accommodate applicants from the southern region at the Killarney events and others at the Dublin ceremonies. The location of ceremonies is an important point. I appreciate there are costs and time involved in travelling to ceremonies. I acknowledge what the Senator has said on the idea of local-level citizenship ceremonies. That would be really progressive and it is an interesting idea. I am pleased to say that the citizenship division of the Department is exploring every option with regard to the localisation and location of ceremonies. The granting of Irish citizenship is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. As regards the Senator’s specific inquiry on classes on citizenship, the Irish language and the introduction of a civic test, there are no plans to amend the Act to introduce a civic test as part of the application process.