Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

The outcome of the US mid-term elections has been heartening. The indications from the Democrats that they are in favour of immigration reform show there is hope at last on this matter. I am glad the Minister raised this issue at an early stage in the changeover of power. With the Democrats now in the driving seat, does the Minister envisage real progress on this matter? Does he expect the Democrat Party to give it top priority?

Has the Minister ever broached the subject of a visa exchange programme between the US and Ireland, similar to the one that operates between the US and Chile and the US and Australia? This would not only give Irish people access to the US labour market but would also give American citizens the opportunity to work here.

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