Mr. Michael Collins:

The Irish undocumented community in the United States was affected particularly harshly by both the Trump Administration and then the Covid-19 pandemic. As my colleague said, the ongoing and pervasive anti-immigrant rhetoric of the previous Administration created particular fear and anxiety among the Irish undocumented community, resulting in a pulling away from centres and their essential programmes and services. The undocumented retreated further under the radar, becoming further isolated from the community.

In addition to systemic concerns, many undocumented Irish work in construction, hospitality and other service-oriented professions. The pandemic and associated year-long shutdown resulted in loss of employment, diminished savings and crisis situations for these individuals, who were also excluded from US governmental benefits, such as unemployment and federal pandemic relief moneys.

Coalition membership reported an increase in inquiries from undocumented individuals and families looking to return to Ireland during the pandemic as a last resort, with the pandemic being the last straw for many of them.

The coalition member centres transitioned extremely quickly to remote work and virtual programming to facilitate the continuation of all essential programmes including immigration, social services and senior services. In addition to regular programmes, the centres also provided emergency support services and hardship fund distribution to assist those most impacted by the pandemic. Centres opened food pantries, increased contact hours and partnered with respective local and state agencies and organisations to advocate for increased financial support for the most vulnerable in the community, especially the undocumented.

Centres across the country also continue to work with local government and community partners to implement essential support programmes in their regions. Many states, including New York, Illinois, California and Massachusetts, have initiated programmes specifically for undocumented populations, and the Irish centres have worked hard to ensure that community members have access to these supports where applicable.

I will hand over to Ms Kennelly, who will speak about wellness and mental health.