One of the main priorities for the Department of Justice this year is the introduction of a citizenship exam for naturalisation applicants, Metro Éireann has learned.
In a statement confirming the plan, the department stated that work on the development of an English language and/or civics test for citizenship applicants was being completed.
“Such tests are a standard part of the naturalisation process in many countries worldwide,” it stated. “The ability to speak the language – even at a most basic level – together with some knowledge of the way business is conducted in Ireland, is an essential part of the integration process for immigrants and must form an integral part of eligibility for naturalisation.”
There has been strong speculation about the introduction of a citizenship exam since the Fine Gael-Labour coalition came to power last year.
In August 2011, Metro Éireann exclusively reported on the planned examination. “This is being evaluated as part of a wider review of citizenship legislation,” the department told this paper at the time.
There was no date given, but Metro Éireann speculated that the plan would commence in February this year and would coincide with new measures announced on 16 June by the Minister for Justice Alan Shatter aimed at reducing the waiting time on decisions for citizenship applications.
Meanwhile, the Department of Justice has said it would also make the development of a comprehensive policy approach for both family reunification and settlement.
“The concentration will be on cases involving non-EEA family members of Irish citizens and also those where both parties come from outside the EEA,” the department said in a statement.
“While the Government must retain the discretion to determine the State’s approach to immigration, bearing in mind wider concerns of public policy, the minister considers that a clear statement of policy will be of benefit to prospective migrants and all those involved in immigration management.”
