Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
400. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice the procedure for a Ukrainian person who has been in Ireland for a year and would like to apply for Irish citizenship; whether the usual procedure and charges apply, or if there a different system for Ukrainians; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46559/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the activation of the EU Temporary Protection Directive is an emergency provision designed to quickly and humanely respond to the mass displacement of Ukrainian people by Russian aggression. Ireland participates in this EU measure, which is given legal effect under section 60 of the International Protection Act 2015.
Those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine and who meet the criteria set out in the Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/382) are eligible for this temporary protection, initially for one year and on a renewable basis, as long as the Temporary Protection Directive remains activated.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. All applications are processed in line with the eligibility criteria set out under that Act.
Applicants are required to have five years reckonable residence in the State prior to making an application, except for spouses of Irish nationals where the requirement is three years. Accordingly, any person in Ireland having been granted Temporary Protection will not have acquired the reckonable residence needed to become naturalised.
Ireland and fellow member states continue to consider what provisions will be made for beneficiaries of Temporary Protection when the Directive is no longer active in March 2025.
