2179. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the evidence or analysis that informed the decision to introduce the revised citizenship residency requirement and family reunification provisions in the International Protection Act 2026; the assessment that was made of how these measures would support the integration of people granted international protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60459/26]

2180. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether his Department carried out an assessment of the overall impact of the changes introduced under the International Protection Act 2026 on people already in the international protection process (details supplied); whether the effect of these changes on the length of time families may remain separated was examined; whether any transitional arrangements for people already in the system were considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60472/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2179 and 2180 together.

Migration plays an important role in Ireland's economic, social and community life. For those granted international protection, the ability to reunite with close family members can be a significant factor in supporting stability and integration.

At the same time, family reunification policy must operate within the context of finite public resources. The State has a responsibility to manage migration in the interests of the country's economic and social wellbeing and to promote independence and self-sufficiency in support of positive integration outcomes.

As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland has experienced unprecedented numbers of international protection applicants over the last few years.

I introduced family reunification provisions in the International Protection Act 2026 that reflect these objectives and more closely align Ireland's approach with that of other EU Member States. The provisions have been carefully developed to ensure compliance with all relevant constitutional and European Convention on Human Rights obligations. Following the grant of international protection, sponsors will not be entitled to seek family reunification for a defined period of two years.

I have also introduced a range of conditions relating to self-sufficiency, alongside a waiting period before any such application may be made.

Recognising the challenges faced by those who have been granted international protection, a number of exemptions are provided in relation to the self-sufficiency criteria. The purpose of these exemptions is to allow for a short period of reliance on State supports where an applicant would otherwise be unable to provide for themselves without recourse to those supports. Furthermore, I propose to exempt minors from the income thresholds and to allow for the exercise of discretion in relation to all criteria when considering applications for family reunification from unaccompanied minors.

Last November, Government approved the introduction of new policies and legislative changes to strengthen Ireland's migration and asylum system and ensure that it is rules-based, efficient and more closely aligned with other EU Member States. One such policy change related to the residence requirements applying to a person granted refugee status who subsequently wishes to apply for Irish citizenship. This change came into effect on 8 December 2025.

Previously, individuals granted international protection could apply for citizenship after a period of three years. Since 8 December 2025, refugees have generally been required to have five years of reckonable residence in the State in order to meet the eligibility criteria for citizenship. This policy change relates solely to the length of reckonable residence required following the grant of international protection.

The extension of the reckonable residence requirement reinforces the principle that Irish citizenship reflects a sustained and meaningful connection with the State, demonstrated over time.

This approach supports the Government's objective of achieving positive integration outcomes for both sponsors and their family members. In that context, my Department continues to invest in a range of integration measures, including community-led initiatives that promote the participation and inclusion of migrants and their families in Irish society.