Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 463 and 470 together.

I am deeply conscious of how important the granting of naturalisation is to all of those who apply for it. I understand that extended wait times can be frustrating and disruptive for applicants and my Department has been working hard to clear backlogs.

It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time. The median processing time for applications of Naturalisation is currently 19 months.

In a little over two years Citizenship Division has gone from processing around 12,000 applications a year to processing over 20,000 applications. This 66% increase in processing has been achieved through digitising and streamlining processes.

The digitisation measures introduced include eVetting and online payments, and more recently a move to online based applications. This provides a streamlined application process and helps guide applicants through what is required for their application.

I would also note that the granting of naturalisation is not a prerequisite for entering employment; there are a range of other immigration permissions that allow individuals to take up employment in the State.

Finally, I can advise the Deputy that the Citizenship Division of my Department continues to communicate regularly with all applicants to keep them informed as to updates on processing times and arrangements.