Citizenship ceremonies in Killarney hear warnings about threats to democracy

Some 3,300 people became Irish citizens in four separate ceremonies on Monday. Picture: Valerie O'Sullivan

The foundations of Western democracy are under threat in its traditional bastions of the UK and the US, retired High Court judge Bryan McMahon has warned, as he encouraged Ireland's newest citizens to become part of their communities.

Nearly 3,300 people will become Irish citizens in two days of ceremonies in Killarney, with British nationals once again the largest group in attendance, and the US also in the top 10.