Irish Citizenship, specifically the term Irish Associations

Hi all,

Just checking out the application form for Irish citizenship through naturalization. In the general info it mentions that the Minister can waive any of the formal requirements needed by non-nationals applying for citizenship. One of the circumstances that could be used in waiving a condition would be if the the 'person is of Irish descent, (ok, fair enough) or of Irish associations.....'

Does anyone have a formal definition of what 'Irish associations' mean? Or specific examples which were used to meet this criteria in the past for citizneship? I've looked on the www.justice.ie and other Irish government websites but so far no luck. The term is referenced a number of times in offical documents but I can't find a definition.

Thanks for any info.

Maria

Hi threre,

Well, kinda got an unoffical definition to the term 'Irish Associations' when applying for naturalization. It basically refers to any Irish descent that the applicant might have but is a more general category than strictly Irish parents, grandparents, spouse, etc. It could be used to expediate the process of naturalization into Ireland if for example the applicant had Irish great-grandparents or children or if the applicant was an orphan and sent to live with his/her Irish aunt, specific situations like those.

Speaking to a rep of the Immigrant Council of Ireland who are based in Dublin and offer aid (both legal and regular advice) with respect to all non-nationals, migrant workers..... They are really helpful and tell you the 'bottom-line' so to speak of your particular question or problem. They have both office hours and telephone service and are open Mon-Tues & Thurs-Fri during normal working hours. Their on www.immigrantcouncil.ie The above was the explaination of the term 'Irish association' that was given to me by one of their reps on the phone.

I have also written the Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Immigration Dept for a full, legal definition, but so far no joy.

Cheers,

Maria

Thanks for sharing, Maria!