Northern Ireland Issues.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 March 2004

Wednesday, 31 March 2004

Ceisteanna (93)

Liz McManus

Ceist:

76 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions he has had with the British authorities regarding the implications for the Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom and the Government of Ireland concluded in Belfast on Good Friday 1998 of the Government’s proposals to amend the Constitution in regard to the right of citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9891/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The Government has approved the preparation of a Bill to amend the Constitution and of a draft implementing Bill regarding the entitlement to citizenship of persons born in Ireland to non-nationals who do not have a substantial connection with the State. No formal discussions have taken place with the British authorities on this subject to date.