Over the course of today and tomorrow, approximately 6,000 people will be granted Irish citizenship at the Convention Centre Dublin. Six ceremonies will take place over the two days, attended by Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe, and Ministers of State Robert Troy and Neale Richmond. Applicants from more than 138 countries and all 32 counties on the island will make a declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the State, officially becoming Irish citizens.
Minister of State Colm Brophy highlighted the importance of migration in Ireland’s development and encouraged new citizens to integrate and contribute to inclusive communities. Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe emphasized the role of new citizens in enhancing Ireland’s labour market and economy and congratulated them on committing their future to the country.
Judge Paddy McMahon, the Presiding Officer at the ceremonies, will administer the Declaration of Fidelity to the Irish Nation and Loyalty to the State, ensuring that the new citizens undertake to observe the laws of Ireland and respect its democratic values.
The Department of Justice’s Citizenship Division has seen significant growth in applications, increasing from around 12,000 per year to over 20,000 in 2023 and nearly 31,000 in 2024. Reforms such as digital applications, online payments, and eVetting have helped streamline the process, reducing average processing times from 15 months in 2023 to 8 months in 2024. Going forward, most applicants are expected to receive a decision within one year, although processing times may vary depending on individual cases.
