IMMIGRANTS WHO have lost their jobs in the recession may also lose out on Irish citizenship.
Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern has not ruled-out disqualifying citizenship applicants who are now jobless.
The minster was asked by Sinn Féin TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin why some applicants who had lost their employment in the economic downturn had been refused citizenship, and if this policy would be “reconsidered for those likely to return to full-time employment”.
According to Minister Ahern, an applicant must show that he/she has supported him or herself and is “in a position to continue that support into the future”.
He said decisions are made “based on all the information available” and that generally, not availing of State support in the three-year period prior to the date of application or subsequently “has satisfied officials that [the applicants] have supported themselves independently for that period”.
In March, the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) expressed concern over a new question on citizenship application forms which queries an applicant’s social welfare history.
According to the MRCI, the more detailed application form – which came into effect on 1 March – is sparking fears that accessing welfare will impact negatively on applications.
“MRCI is concerned that people may be penalised for having accessed supports they are entitled to at a time when they are vulnerable,” said the organisation.
