John Cregan (Limerick West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 320: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps a person should take to secure an Irish passport, who although not born here has lived and worked here for years; and if an application for citizenship is a necessary first step. [3161/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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All matters pertaining to the issue of Irish passports are the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs. However, prior to obtaining an Irish passport, a non-national must first obtain Irish citizenship.

On the basis of the information supplied, it appears that naturalisation is the appropriate route to Irish citizenship for the person in the question. Such applications are considered under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, and the granting of a certificate of naturalisation is at my absolute discretion. The applicant must fulfil certain statutory requirements, including requirements in respect of residency. Further information and application forms can be obtained from my Department's website, www.justice.ie, or by telephoning the citizenship section helpline at 1890 551 500. The helpline is operational Tuesday and Thursday mornings, from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.