AIPPS Ireland have been invited to submit its recommendations on the proposed citizenship reforms following a formal invitation from the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. This marks an important milestone in our advocacy for a fair citizenship pathway that recognises the contributions of people who have built their lives, careers and families in Ireland. Our submission brings together our earlier representations to Ministers, our policy statement and 508 anonymous survey responses, ensuring that participants’ concerns inform the Committee’s examination of the proposed legislation.
What AIPPS Ireland Is Calling For
Our recommendations focus on fairness, continuity and recognition of contribution:
- Clear transitional protection for people already lawfully living and working in Ireland, so they can plan their futures with greater certainty.
- Retention of the five-year citizenship pathway, with recognition of the contributions of healthcare professionals and other essential skilled workers.
- Recognition of existing professional language competence when considering proposed language requirements.
- Fair safeguards for families and people experiencing illness, parental leave or temporary hardship, so these circumstances do not create disproportionate barriers to citizenship.
What Our Survey Participants Told Us
Of the 504 respondents who answered the retention question, 372—73.8%—said that a hypothetical eight-year citizenship scenario would make them less likely to remain in Ireland or lead them to consider or plan leaving.
These responses describe stated intentions under a hypothetical scenario. They are not evidence of actual departures, and the survey should not be treated as a representative estimate of Ireland’s wider workforce. Nevertheless, they identify concerns that deserve careful consideration when assessing the potential effects of citizenship reform on workforce retention, family stability and Ireland’s ability to retain skilled professionals. Behind these responses are people who have invested years in their careers, supported public services and established lasting connections with their communities.
Constructive Engagement Will Continue
Our submission asks policymakers to consider the circumstances of people already contributing to Ireland and the practical consequences of changing their expected pathway to citizenship. Submitting recommendations is an opportunity to inform the Committee’s examination. It does not mean that our proposals have been accepted or that a final legislative outcome has been decided. AIPPS Ireland will continue engaging constructively and keep our members and supporters informed of further developments.
Thank You for Making Your Voices Heard
We thank everyone who completed the survey, shared our campaign and supported this work. Your participation has helped us present participants’ experiences and concerns directly to the Committee. Please share this update with colleagues and community members so they know their concerns are being represented.
AIPPS Ireland
Advocating for fairness. Recognising contribution.
