Language proficiency for citizenship worth ‘considering’, Tánaiste says

By Cillian Sherlock, Press Association

There is “merit in considering a language proficiency” for Irish citizenship, the Tánaiste has said.

Simon Harris said language is “an important part of integration” for people coming to the country.

Speaking to reporters in Co Kildare, the Fine Gael leader said many migrants had made a “great positive contribution” to Ireland but said there was “legitimate discussions to be had around citizenship in general”.

Language is an important part of integration, absolutely

Harris said: “There’s many people who have taken Irish citizenship, and our country is the better for it.”

He said citizenship was a “cherished gift” and added that the Government had “made a lot of improvements” to the system in recent years.

“Is there a need for further refinement? It’s something that merits reflection.”

Asked specifically about a language requirement, he said: “Language is an important part of integration, absolutely.

“It’s an important part for the person coming to a country, and it’s important for the country to which they’re coming.

“So I do think there’s some merit in considering a language proficiency, but how you best do that is something that I’ll reflect on.”