Sinn Féin sets out ‘constructive’ support for citizenship reform

Sinn Féin has set out qualified support for Government proposals on citizenship, including increasing standard residency to eight years and the implementation of basic language competency.

The party’s justice spokesman Matt Carthy said citizenship has to be “valued and earned” as he launched a policy document on Wednesday, adding that migration “must be managed in the best interests of the people of Ireland”.

Sinn Féin argues that while time spent in the country “matters”, it can not establish “integration, contribution, good character or commitment to Ireland” on its own.

He said citizenship “must not be reduced to a passport secured by the passage of time”.

Mr Carthy accused Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael of failing to develop a “coherent” citizenship policy “for too long”.

He said: “Government should have reviewed the system carefully and openly years ago.

“Instead, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael allowed pressure to build and then announced major changes without first publishing a complete policy, accompanying assessments, an implementation plan or a secure alternative status for people who have lived here lawfully for many years but do not seek, or who may not qualify for, citizenship.”

Mr Carthy said Sinn Féin “will approach reform constructively”, adding the party supports “stronger, clearer and more consistent rules”.

Sinn Féin supports an eight-year residency requirement for citizenship, alongside access to long-term residency after five years.

It said language and citizenship tests should be accompanied by investment in accessible language classes and educational supports to ensure the system is fair and achievable.

The party wants a “greater emphasis” on good character, integration, civic participation and community involvement as part of the citizenship process.

It also calls for a dedicated unit for people resident in Northern Ireland.

He said: “Citizenship should never be viewed simply as another immigration status for those who wish to stay for a medium to longer term.

“Gaining Irish citizenship should not be a reason to come to Ireland.

“Citizenship should be for those who have made Ireland their home and it should demonstrate a long-term commitment to belong, participate and positively contribute to Irish society.”

Mr Carthy argues that “citizenship has become entangled in a dysfunctional migration system”, adding: “People who have legally built their lives here often face delays, uncertainty and a lack of secure long-term residency options.

“In too many cases, citizenship has effectively become the only route to stability. That is not how the system should operate.

“Sinn Féin believes Ireland needs a coherent immigration strategy that recognises housing capacity, availability of public services and the need for successful integration.

“Citizenship policy is distinct from that. It must reflect the significance of becoming part of the Irish nation and should support those who have made a real commitment to this country.”