Billy Lawless (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I reiterate that we should remember today the terrible tragedy that occurred in Berkeley last year. It would be every parent's nightmare, of course, when their children go to the United States for summer employment on J1 visas. We all get calls and everybody tries to help. I compliment the Irish centres and especially those in California that rallied around parents when they came out last year after those people were killed and injured. These Irish centres deserve incredible support. Senators may know there are problems with the J1 programme this year as students must be pre-employed before they are issued with visas. That is wrong and, from what I gather, the process was initiated by one or two agencies. I do not believe what they are doing is legal and I am certainly looking into it. That is a matter for further debate at some stage.

I will read a letter I received last night into the record. It is from the White and it states:

Dear Billy,

Please accept my congratulations on your appointment to the Seanad.

As I have noted before, your story is a powerful one and it reflects the enduring ties of friendship between the peoples of the United States and Ireland. In beginning this new chapter, I trust you will reflect on all that has led you to this point with tremendous pride.

Again, congratulations. You, Anne and Billy have my warm regards,

Sincerely,

It is signed by President Barack Obama. I read this not for self-congratulation but to highlight the importance of the ties between the United States and us.