Vol. 544 No. 2
127 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 451 of 16 October 2001, he will arrange an appeal in this case; and the other information which is required. [28352/01]
In my reply to Question No. 451 of 16 October 2001, I advised the Deputy that I decided not to grant certificates of naturalisation to the two individuals who were the subject of the question.
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 as amended in 1986, provides that the granting of a certificate of naturalisation is at my absolute discretion and it is not policy, therefore, to disclose the reasons for refusal in an individual case. Furthermore, the aforementioned Act does not contain any provisions for appeal against my decision.
The persons referred to may wish to consider requesting access to the records held on their naturalisation files under the Freedom of Information Act, 1997. Further information in this regard may be obtained from the Freedom of Information Officer at the press and information office of my Department, Telephone Nos. (01) 6028358/6028541.
It is open to the individuals concerned to apply again at any time in the future provided that they meet the statutory requirements for naturalisation at the time of application.
