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

I wish to assure the House that the funding will continue. I agree that further action will be needed to resolve immigration reform in the USA. While President Obama's action is of course welcome and is a major step forward, it does not end the debate on further immigration reform. He has made it clear that he considers that there is a need for further legislation in this area and that such action, in the form of legislation, would supersede the executive action he took last week. While there appears to be a certain amount of willingness to consider further action in Congress at some future date, this is dependent, as the Deputy will appreciate, on many factors and will not be easily achieved. However, we are keeping in close contact with high level opinion formers, influencers and leaders on the Democrat and Republican sides.

I wish to acknowledge the work of Deputies in the House to ensure high level contacts are not only maintained but enhanced. I acknowledge the work of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade, Deputies from the west of Ireland and those in Deputies Crowe and Smith's parties. This is an issue of significant importance to all Irish families. While progress can be reported, much work remains outstanding.

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