First of today's citizenship ceremonies has taken place in Killarney

The first of today's citizenship ceremonies has taken place in Killarney.

Hundreds of internationals became Irish citizens in a special sitting in the INEC Arena.

Hundreds attended the first of four ceremonies this week in the INEC in Killarney.

Minister of State at the Department of Justice, James Browne thanked the attendees for their contribution to Irish society:

Retired High Court judge Bryan MacMahon, who presided over the ceremony, says an onus still lies on our newest citizens:

And here was the moment hundreds recited the Declaration of Fidelity to the nation:

Around 3,500 new Irish citizens will be welcomed from over 130 countries.

Blessing Adeola of Dublin, in Killarney for the December 2022 citizenship ceremonies at the Gleneagle INEC Arena.
Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan/FREE PIC***/ISSUED 5th December 2022

Harpreet Singh, from Newbridge, Co Kildare, in Killarney for the December 2022 citizenship ceremonies at the Gleneagle INEC Arena.
Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan/FREE PIC***

Attendees queueing to enter a December 2022 citizenship ceremony at the Gleneagle INEC Arena in Killarney
Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan/FREE PIC***