270 Limerick residents granted Irish citizenship at Killarney ceremonies

A TOTAL of 270 applicants from Limerick took part in Citizenship Ceremonies held at the INEC in Killarney - Monday, June 23, and Tuesday, June 24. 

Across the two days, seven ceremonies were conducted, welcoming 7,500 candidates from 143 different countries as they officially became Irish citizens.

Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Niall Collins, has represented the Department of Justice at three Citizenship Ceremonies in the INEC Killarney.

Minister Collins said, "Citizenship is not only a right but a symbol of shared responsibility and mutual trust. These new citizens now have a place in shaping the future of Ireland.” 

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Hailing from Patrickswell, Minister Collins added, "I sincerely congratulate each of our new Irish citizens, particularly the 270 applicants in Limerick. This is a proud and memorable day for them, their families, Limerick and indeed for the whole country.” 

In just over two years the Citizenship Division of the Department of Justice has gone from processing around 12,000 applications a year to processing over 20,000 applications in 2023, and nearly 31,000 in 2024.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, highlighted the significance of the ceremonies, saying, “This ceremony marks an important milestone in the lives of those receiving Irish citizenship. For each new citizen it signifies a deep connection to Ireland, its values, and its people. Ireland welcomes our new citizens as full members of society, and their contributions will undoubtedly strengthen the fabric of our nation.”

Significant changes have been introduced in the Citizenship Division to speed up the application process for applicants, including the introduction of an online digital application, online payments, and eVetting.

As a result, processing times are now decreasing year on year. The length of time it takes to process an application has dropped from 15 months in 2023 to 8 months in 2024.