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

The Deputy is correct in his approach. I wish to assure Deputy Naughten and the House again that through its embassies and consulates across the United States, as well as through direct political contact with the Administration and Congress, the Government will continue to advocate and encourage further steps that will reflect the concerns and needs of the Irish people. I also refer again to the Deputy's comments with specific reference to the E-3 visa, which is a vehicle that has been used to good effect in respect of relations between Australia and the United States in particular. It is the Government's intention to continue to pursue at every opportunity the facilitation of such an agreement between Ireland and the United States and I will keep the House informed of developments in this regard.

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