The musician born David Evans, known as The Edge, became an Irish citizen this week, joining over 7,500 individuals who received citizenship in a series of ceremonies in southwest Ireland.
The U2 guitarist, recognized for his signature black beanie and distinctive sound, expressed pride in his new citizenship status. “I’m a little tardy on the paperwork,” he remarked, noting that he has lived in Ireland since he was one year old. He emphasized the significance of the moment, stating, “I couldn’t be more proud of my country for all that it represents and all that it’s doing.”
The citizenship ceremonies took place in Killarney, County Kerry, where applicants from over 140 countries made a declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the state. Since 2011, more than 200,000 individuals have been granted Irish citizenship.
Evans, 63, was born in Essex to Welsh parents and moved to Ireland as a child. U2, formed in 1976, has become one of the most recognizable and successful rock bands from Ireland, often regarded as a national treasure. At the ceremony, Evans remarked on Ireland's global leadership and expressed that his citizenship could not have come at a better time. “I have always felt Irish,” he stated, expressing happiness in deepening his connection to his homeland.
He shared that the application process took a couple of years but was ultimately straightforward. “Honestly there were many moments in the past when I could have done it, with just the form to be filled out, but I’m happy it’s now,” he said, adding that it feels more significant and meaningful at this time.