Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 459: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if availing of PRSI related benefits will damage an applicant's suitability for citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15633/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. These conditions are that the applicant must -

• be of full age

• be of good character

• have had a period of one yearâ€TMs continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years

• intend in good faith to continue to reside in the State after naturalisation

• have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State

In the absence of details relating to a specific case, the Deputy will appreciate that I am unable to provide a definitive response in relation to the issue raised. However, I can advise that an applicant for naturalisation would be expected to be financially self sufficient and non-reliant on public funds.