Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

It does nothing for this important issue when people are trying to distort what is said and cause political divisions. What the Taoiseach said in the White House is on the record.

We take great pride, also, in the contribution of all our emigrants to the United States, and acknowledge, Mr. President, your efforts in recent times to achieve comprehensive immigration reform. It is our fervent wish that a resolution will be found as soon as possible to the plight of those in our community here who cannot fully enjoy their freedom and promise of this great nation.

As his brother is involved, Senator Kelly will be aware that the group in question in the United States have done tremendous work on this issue, but they were overly optimistic in creating expectations that unfortunately were not fulfilled.