How to get an Irish passport

Anyone can "travel freely" within the EU once you are inside, no need for an Irish/EU passport for that. But, yes, it is a big plus to have an Irish passport. Outside of North America (don't try to enter Canada from the US with your Irish passport, it would be a hassle) I use my Irish passport exclusively. In an encounter with Islamic terrorists it may be a lifesaver. If you do extensive international travel and quality for Irish citizenship go for it. You are not only entitled to live and work in all EU countries (except for Romania and Bulgaria for the moment) but also in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. How about Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guyana, Nouvelle Calendonie or Mayotte? No problem, call it home with your Irish passport.

Or be a member of MI-6 or the Mossad, or...

Who in his right mind would want to sashay through Dublin EU passport section when he can land in Shannon and see the Ireland we came for right away without all those trappings of civilisation that Dublin so thoroughly supplies?

Ask Israel for one.

"English citizenship?" Surely, you mean "British citizenship".