Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 October 2026
21. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department has conducted a cost-benefit analysis of his proposals to make it harder for people to attain citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70622/26]
View answerThe Government recognises and values the significant contribution that migrants make to Irish society, communities and the economy.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to continue to implement a firmer and more sustainable migration system which protects the integrity of the State's immigration framework. In that context, the General Scheme of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Bill 2026 proposes a number of reforms to the citizenship process
Citizenship represents the fullest expression of membership of Irish society and it is important that the legislative framework governing access to citizenship is robust, fair and sustainable.
The proposed changes do not seek to restrict integration or exclude migrants from Irish society. Rather, they are intended to ensure that citizenship reflects a genuine and lasting connection to Ireland, an understanding of the State and its institutions, and an ongoing commitment to Irish society.
The residence period requirements in other EU Member States were considered in determining the revision to residency period requirements contained in the Bill.
As with all significant legislative proposals, a Regulatory Impact Assessment will be undertaken as the legislation is developed. Regulatory Impact Assessments are an important part of the legislative process and provide an opportunity to assess the potential impacts of proposed measures.
While the proposals may affect the timeframe within which some individuals become eligible to apply for citizenship, they do not affect a person's entitlement to reside, work, study, establish a business or establish a life in Ireland in accordance with the terms of their immigration permission.
