Ceremony grants 158 people in Westmeath Irish citizenship

158 people with addresses in Westmeath became Irish citizens this week at citizenship ceremonies held in Kerry.

Six ceremonies took place in the INEC Killarney in Kerry, resulting in people from 138 countries around the world and living in 18 counties on the island of Ireland being conferred as Irish citizens.

The top countries of origin of those conferred with Irish citizenship this week were: India (995), United Kingdom (416) and Brazil (294).

To date approximately 176,000 people have received Irish citizenship since 2011.

Speaking ahead of the ceremonies, Minister McEntee said,

“Citizenship ceremonies are wonderful celebration where we welcome our newest citizens on this milestone in their lives."

"Today and tomorrow, attendees will make a declaration of fidelity to the Irish nation and loyalty to the State, a fundamental step in becoming Irish."

"Each individual is demonstrating their strong commitment to our country and the values we stand for."

"I would like to warmly congratulate all those who have chosen to become a citizen of this nation and thank them for their significant contribution to our culture, economy and society.”