Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I acknowledge the exceptional contribution that Senator Mansergh has made to the peace process on this island. There is always the danger of misrepresentation but, importantly, he approached his work in an astute, sensitive and humane manner, and he also won the trust and confidence of all traditions. The success that he and others have had in the peace process is evident.

I ask the Leader to ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs to come to the House and update us on the current status of Irish immigrants in the USA. Speaking in New York recently, he outlined the difficulties for undocumented immigrants that have resulted from the tragedy of 11 September 2001. I know that many of them find themselves in a very uncomfortable and traumatic situation. Perhaps the Minister could update us on the manner in which the good relations between the USA and Ireland are being used in this regard.