Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I also support this in principle. It reminds me, as somebody who like many Members on both sides of the House has over many years lobbied on behalf of the undocumented Irish in the United States, that one learns a great deal. I learned a great deal from Senator Zappone in justifying the reason this amendment should be accepted by the Minister.

I learned a great deal about US immigration law and its emotional impact in the home of the brave and land of the free. For example, this legislation, if enacted, I suggest would be in advance of the situation in the United States. One hears on a regular basis from those on the right wing that those who are undocumented entered the country illegally and should, therefore, go back in line. I understand from immigration lawyers that there are approximately 15 different lines a person must join before even being considered for entry into the United States. One of the most iniquitous is for spouses of naturalised citizens of the United States. It can take up to 15 years for a spouse or their siblings to enter the United States despite that the partner is already in the United States legally.

For that reason, if for none other, I would not like to see any extra imposition, burden or obstacle placed in the way of Irish citizens who have entered into civil partnerships and are as of last year protected by the law. I hope the Minister can see fit to accept this minor change, one that will have enormous positive benefits for human beings. We are speaking here about human beings and not numbers, statutes or laws. It is in that spirit that I have made my contribution. I am very much aware of the impact of less liberal laws on immigration in America, which quite frankly is a scandal. Immigration reform should be addressed but is not because of the many Neanderthals and right wingers saying immigrants should get back in line. I would not like to see a situation develop in Ireland whereby people would be told that because of the legal protection afforded to partnership, the other half of that partnership should be told to get back in line.