Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 45: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in communicating a decision not to grant a certificate of naturalisation, the reason for refusal is given; and if not, the reason applicants are advised that they may reapply and in so doing should give due regard to the reason for refusal. [40929/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended provides that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation if he is satisfied that certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. These conditions include having a period of residence in the State and being of good character. When an application for naturalisation is received, it is examined immediately to determine if the applicant meets the statutory residence criteria. If the applicant does not meet the residency requirements s/he is informed accordingly and advised of his/her right to re-apply for the grant of a certificate of naturalisation at a later date. If the applicant has the necessary residence in the State, the application will then be considered in accordance with the other statutory requirements.

In the course of processing the application, enquiries regarding the individual's financial background, including their social welfare and taxation histories will be made. In addition, enquiries are made with the Garda Síochána in relation to the applicants background to establish if he or she can be considered to be of good character. Any other enquiries deemed necessary will also be made in advance of submitting the case to me for a decision. The applicant will then be informed in writing of my decision. S/he will also be provided with a copy of the submission prepared by my official's which summarises the information available to me at the decision-making stage. It is a matter for the applicant, having regard to the information contained in the submission, to consider the merits of lodging a fresh application.