Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit.

It seems that good news is coming down the line for those unfortunate people who find themselves officially undocumented in the United States. I compliment everyone connected with that, including those to whom I referred. I single out the diplomatic service for its contribution. We are all aware of the magnificent service it provides to Irish citizens each day.

I have visited the United States every year for over 30 years. During that time I have had the opportunity to meet members of the Irish community in different circumstances and in respect of different activities. I refer, in particular, to those I have met in the context of my activities on behalf of Comhaltas CeoltóiríÉireann, which has 50 chapters throughout North America. One comes to realise that there is a great sense of community among the Irish abroad. It is not as if they are in some way a disparate body of people. That is by no means the case. We have seen this reflected in many ways by Americans, none moreso than President Clinton who made such a magnificent, hands-on contribution to the peace process in the North of Ireland. I would go so far as to say that without President Clinton in office at that time, matters might not be as advances as they stand at present. One of the reasons any US President would become involved in the affairs of this island is because of the huge respect for the Irish community in the US and the contribution they have made to the country of their adoption.

The quota system, which was introduced during the Kennedy era, impacted greatly on Ireland. At the time I happened to be in Cleveland, which was a stronghold for Mayo people. It is amazing what becomes a priority but what most worried the Irish there was that they would not have as many GAA players coming out to help the teams in the US.