Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

There is no embassy in Washington more effective at lobbying Capitol Hill and the American political system than the Irish Embassy. We have had outstanding service there over the years from our ambassadors and diplomats, including those currently serving there. They miss no opportunity to lobby on this issue and this country's other issues.

In respect of the reciprocal arrangement mentioned by the Deputy, we are examining every option, including reciprocal arrangements. When one is dealing with immigration issues in the United States, there is always a sense that what is achieved by one country in respect of immigration concessions is then sought by other countries. We must bear in mind that what one country is doing is always watched by another country. Nevertheless, we are exploring every possible opportunity. Our embassy in Washington has been hugely active on this but in addition to that work, if necessary, I will engage in some of that directly.

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