Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for his further clarification. I again urge him to ensure that every opportunity that arises is taken by Irish political leaders and officials working in the United States in order to keep the issue on top of the agenda. The Tánaiste correctly stated that many people have not been able to travel home for family occasions, be they happy or sad. All of us, but in particular those who represent rural constituencies, receive representations every weekend from parents, elderly in many instances, who want a son or daughter to be in a position to travel home. We want to be able to assure them that this is a priority for Government. It is outside our legislative powers but the Government can keep it high on the agenda in all discussions with Members of Congress and officials in President Obama’s Administration as well.

See this speech in context