Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2024
148. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he has established or will establish a scheme where non-Irish nationals can be assisted with their naturalisation following an agreed level of service in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42521/24]
View answerI believe it is critically important that the Defence Forces reflects the modern demographics of today’s Irish society. To that end, the Defence Forces is committed to supporting a diverse workforce through its various policies and strategies.
The Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces provides for the delivery of a range of diversity and inclusion enhancements which will achieve impactful change and ensure Defence Forces membership is more reflective of the diversity of Irish society.
Among these recommendations is the adoption of measures to enable easier access to Irish citizenship for those who serve in the Defence Forces. An assessment of this proposal is set to commence in 2025, in line with targets contained in the CODF Detailed Implementation Plan.
I would add that this body of work will require, an inter-departmental approach, as issues of citizenship are a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Ms,. Helen McEntee.
