Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Yesterday afternoon Senator Feighan raised the issue of high air fares for returning emigrants at Christmas, which is a valid question. I am more concerned about those who cannot return, namely, the undocumented Irish in the USA. We have had a number of useful debates and have passed a motion requesting the Government to support certain measures currently being consideration by the US Congress.

Last week a new group was established in the United States along the lines of the Irish Immigration Reform Movement of the 1980s and 1990s. It is a support group that seeks immigration reform on behalf of the Irish community in the US. In the 1980s and early 1990s, the IIRM was a linchpin that played a crucial role in delivering results on the visa issue. On this occasion, it is imperative that the Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, gives every support and assistance to this new Irish immigration reform group. It will be a key player in building political alliances for the Irish in the United States. The Minister and his officials should make early contact with that group and give it the support it requires.