BUNDEE AKI is among over 3600 people who have received Irish citizenship today.
The Ireland international, originally from New Zealand, moved to Ireland in 2014 to play for Connacht and qualifies to play for Ireland due to his residence.
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3,600 people were granted Irish citizenship at the Convention Centre in Dublin today.
It sees people from 143 countries around the world becoming Irish citizens.
To date, around 180,000 people have received citizenship since 2011.
Speaking ahead of the ceremonies, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee congratulated Ireland’s newest citizens, saying: “Today, at the Convention Centre Dublin, thousands of people will undertake a life changing journey and become an Irish Citizen.
“Having had the privilege of attending many Citizenship ceremonies, it fills me with joy being able to share this special day with so many people.”
Aki joins almost 11,500 people who have become Irish citizens this year at 17 ceremonies.
Speaking to RTE News, he said: “(I’ve) been here for a long time, I’ve enjoyed my time in Ireland, I’ve embraced the people, and the people have embraced me and my family as well.
“To be granted citizenship is not somehthing to be taken lightly.
“I know a few of the lads will be like ‘I don’t know how you’re getting a citizenship’ but I know they’re all delighted for me and my family is also delighted.
“I’m going to enjoy this moment and cherish it.”
Asked by Virgin Media News what he loves about Ireland, he said: “Everthing. I have nothing to complain about here.
“I love the people, I love the culture – (there’s) not a bad word I could speak about Ireland.
“Every time I go somewhere with me and my family. People are so welcome and lovely.
“We feel like we’re at home at the moment.”
