Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is a very important first step. I was pleased to hear Mr. Billy Lawless, the Chicago-based campaigner who has worked for many years on the matter of the undocumented Irish, give the President's announcement a very forthright welcome. However, I agree with Deputy Crowe that while the President's initiative is very important and positive, it is no substitute for legislative action by Congress. This Government, our embassy staff and the various immigrant groups will continue to work with the US Administration and with our contacts in the Republican and Democratic parties. We will be maintaining close contact and continuing our engagement. We have strong friendships across both aisles in Congress and will keep building our network of friends on Capitol Hill. Through our embassy and consulates we will continue to encourage further steps that will reflect the concerns and needs of the undocumented Irish and their families, as well as ensuring improved channels for legal migration between Ireland and America.

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