Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)

Ireland has long and historic ties with the US. Some half a million Irish residents visited last year and more than 30 million Americans claim Irish heritage. However, increasingly an authoritarian Trump government is causing real concerns, in particular for those who are undocumented Irish in America. We think about 10,000 such people are there. This is placing a strain on the relationship.

Last week, I raised the alleged unlawful detention of a Norwegian student by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, in this House. I have heard from many Irish families who are concerned about their children, including students and young adults, travelling to the US and being detained or picked up. I have heard of worrying experiences since I raised this issue in the Dáil, including from Irish citizens. There have been allegations from an individual who said they were detained by ICE for a period of months without charge and with no access to a lawyer or mobile phone for overstaying their visa by a couple of days. Irish residents need guidance and reassurance before making plans to visit the US. Families need to know that their children will be safe over there. Will the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade review the safety of the US for Irish citizens? What representations is the Government making to the US Government on this?

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