New Irish Citizens, Numbering 1,200, Attending At National Concert Hall Dublin.

• Some 1,200 new Irish citizens will be granted Irish citizenship in two ceremonies taking place at the National Concert Hall in Dublin today.
• The Ceremonies will see applicants from 105 countries around the world and living in 31 counties on the island of Ireland being conferred as Irish citizens.
• Minister Paschal Donohoe and Minister of State James Browne will attend the ceremonies and are looking forward to meeting as many of the new citizens as possible.

Speaking ahead of the ceremonies, Justice Minister Mrs Minister Helen McEntee said, “Citizenship ceremonies are always a joyous celebration of what it means to be Irish. I would like to warmly congratulate and welcome our newest citizens on this milestone in their lives.
It is particularly apt that they will begin their journey as Irish citizens at the National Concert Hall as it is a building that is steeped in Irish history. It is the original site of University College Dublin and even hosted the Dáil debates on the Anglo-Irish Treaty in early 1922.
I want to wish nothing but the best to all those who become a citizen of this nation, and join the many others who have come here and are making such a significant contribution to our culture, economy and society”.

The Presiding Officer at both ceremonies is retired Judge Paddy McMahon, who will administer the Declaration of Fidelity to the Irish Nation and Loyalty to the State.
The new Irish citizens will undertake to faithfully observe the laws of the State and to respect its democratic values.
New Irish citizens are contributing to a diverse and inclusive workforce, bringing a range of skills and talents that enhance the overall capabilities of the labour market and economy.

Over 10% of those receiving their citizenship are working within the healthcare sector, across Ireland.

Speaking ahead of the first Ceremony today, Minister Mr Pascal Donohoe said, “Ireland has always had a strong culture of welcoming new people and I am delighted to be able to attend this morning’s ceremony, so that I personally can welcome our newest citizens.
Today marks the end of one journey and the beginning of an exciting new one for them. By sharing their own unique cultures and traditions with us, our newest citizens become part of our communities and we are all the better for it.
I also want to acknowledge the value and necessity of immigration to support Ireland’s strong economy and how it benefits our overall society”.

Minister of State Mr James Browne ahead of attending this afternoon said: “It is my pleasure to attend the Citizenship ceremony today.
As a nation that over centuries saw so many Irish people emigrate to find safety or work, the Irish people understand what it means to be a migrant, to seek a safe haven, to lay roots and to find a new home.
I give my best wishes to our new citizens and to their families as they embark on the next steps of their lives in Ireland and I look forward to meeting as many of them as possible today”.