Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

731. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of a member of a community (details supplied) in relation to delays in processing visa applications; the actions he will take to address these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52086/25]

Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I understand that extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants. I want to assure anyone who has an application for naturalisation submitted that the Citizenship Division of my Department is doing everything possible to progress applications as quickly as possible.

I expect that going forward, the majority of applicants will continue to receive a decision within one year, however, it is important to note that no two naturalisation applications are the same and some take longer than others to process.

Given the importance of citizenship, robust and comprehensive checks must take place on each application. Unfortunately some checks, such as international checks, can take a considerable amount of time and these are largely outside of the control of the Immigration Service.

Citizenship Division have also taken a significant number of steps to improve up the process for applicants. These included introducing an online digital application, online payments, and the introduction of eVetting. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that these changes are reducing processing times.