More than 40 Offaly residents becoming Irish citizens
More than 40 people with addresses in Offaly are becoming Irish citizens this week at ceremonies being held in Killarney.
Over the course of today (Monday) and tomorrow, six ceremonies will have taken place at the INEC Killarney, which will see approximately 5,200 people in total being granted Irish citizenship.
People from 132 countries around the world are receiving their citizenship over the two days, including 43 Offaly residents, 81 Westmeath residents, and 101 Laois residents.
The top countries of origin of those being conferred with Irish citizenship this week are: India (1,188), Brazil (572), Romania (462), United Kingdom (416), Poland (382), Philippines (271), South Africa (199), Pakistan (186), Nigeria (176) and China, including Hong Kong (154).
Residents of all 32 counties on the island have been making their declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the State to become Irish citizens at the events, which are being attended by Ministers of State Colm Brothy, Niall Collins and Jerry Buttimer.
The presiding officer at the ceremonies is Judge Paddy McMahon, who is conferring the attendees with their Irish citizenship.
Speaking ahead of the ceremonies, Minister of State Brophy said: "I am delighted to welcome our newest Irish citizens.
"Migration has long been woven into the fabric of Ireland’s story with 70 million people worldwide claiming a link to Irish descent. Irish people that left here over the centuries strengthened and enriched the communities that they settled in.
"I encourage each of our new citizens to not lose the link to their home countries but also to continue to build connections and contribute to Ireland, the place they now call home."
"My heartfelt congratulations go to all of today’s newest citizens, and to the families and friends who have supported them on this important journey."
Citizenship ceremonies were first introduced in 2011, and since then, including minors, approximately 222,000 people have received Irish citizenship.