James Lawless
Ceist:523. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Justice if he will examine the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24054/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 23 May 2023
Ceisteanna (523)
Freagraí scríofa
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, requires applications for naturalisation on behalf of minors to be made by a parent or guardian of the minor.
When a minor is the subject of a care order, Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, takes on the role and responsibility of providing for that child. However, Tusla does not become the child's parent or guardian within the meaning of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, as amended, and it is for this reason that applications for naturalisation made by Tusla on behalf of minors are not accepted as valid applications. This issue is currently being examined by my Department, in consultation with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
Please also note that once a minor reaches the age of 18 years it is open to them to submit an application for naturalisation in their own right.
I wish to advise that the people concerned may wish to make an application for a travel document. A travel document is an official document which assists qualifying non Irish Nationals who are resident in Ireland to travel abroad. More information and the relevant application form is available on the Irish Immigration website at www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-join-family-in-ireland/applying-for-a-travel-document/.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. All applications for a certificate of naturalisation are processed and assessed individually in accordance with the provisions of the Act.