CITIZEN GAIN...

New Irish from more than 132 countries

- BY CATHAL RYAN

THOUSANDS of people became Irish citizens yesterday in ceremonies at the INEC Killarney.

Applicants from more than 132 countries will make a declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the State over the next two days with 5,200 people set to become Irish citizens.

There will be six ceremonies held over the two days in Killarney, with Minister of State with responsibility for Migration, Colm Brophy, in attendance.

He will also be joined by Minister of State with responsibility for International Law, Law Reform and Youth Justice, Niall Collins, and Minister of State with special responsibility for Community Development and Charities, and with special responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer.

Judge Paddy McMahon, the Presiding Officer at the ceremonies, will confer the attendees with Irish citizenship.