Summary
A 58-year-old U.S. citizen, employed as a senior principal systems engineer, was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline C (Foreign Preference). The Statement of Reasons cited his dual Irish citizenship, acquired in 1995 for travel safety, and possession of an Irish passport. It also noted his willingness to renounce this citizenship, his lack of voting in foreign elections, and absence of foreign financial interests.
Disqualifying conditions related to exercising dual citizenship and possessing a foreign passport were raised. However, the applicant took proactive steps to mitigate these concerns. Upon learning of security implications, he surrendered his Irish passport and began the process to renounce his Irish citizenship.
The judge found minimal risk of foreign influence, noting the casual nature of his relationships with relatives in Ireland and his spouse's dual citizenship. Mitigating conditions were applied, recognizing his actions to renounce dual citizenship, the infrequent contact with foreign relatives, and his long-standing employment in a sensitive role with positive character references. Ultimately, the security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant expressed a willingness to renounce his dual citizenship and took steps to do so after being informed of security concerns.
- The applicant's relationships with foreign relatives were deemed casual and infrequent, mitigating foreign influence concerns.
- The applicant's long-standing employment in a sensitive position and positive character references supported his case.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A3.1.2.1raisedExercise of Dual Citizenship
- E2.A3.1.2.2raisedPossession And/or Use of a Foreign Passport
- E2.A3.1.3.4appliedWillingness to Renounce Dual Citizenship
- E2.A2.1.3.1appliedImmediate Family Members Not Agents of a Foreign Power
- E2.A2.1.3.3appliedCasual and Infrequent Contact with Foreign Citizens
Key Rule Quoted
“"A citizen of the US from birth, Applicant acquired in June 1995 Irish citizenship through post-nuptial declaration so that he would have a passport from another country to present in the event of a terrorist incident or other threat when traveling abroad."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 15, 2002
- Answer filedNov 25, 2002
- Hearing heldMar 26, 2003Hearing was rescheduled from February 27, 2003.
- Decision dateJun 2, 2003
Cite For
- Mitigation of Foreign Preference Concerns Through Proactive Renunciation of Citizenship
- Assessment of Foreign Influence Based on Casual Family Ties
- Importance of Credible Testimony in Security Clearance Cases