The person in question currently has permission to remain in the State on the basis that he holds a work permit. From the correspondence submitted it would appear that he wishes to operate a business in the State. If this is the case then he must submit an application in writing to the immigration division of my Department providing details of the proposed business. His application can only then be processed. Details of the requirements of this scheme are available on the Department's website.
The average processing time of applications for naturalisation currently is approximately 15 to 18 months. Consequently, it is likely that the application of the person concerned will be finalised in early 2005.
As soon as I have reached a decision on the matter, I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy of the outcome.