Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 283: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his recent contacts with the US Government regarding the undocumented Irish currently living in the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11866/05]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The circumstances of undocumented Irish people in the US are raised on an ongoing basis in our bilateral contacts with US political leaders. Most recently, the issue was raised when the Taoiseach and I met President Bush on St. Patrick's Day. During our meeting, the President re-affirmed his commitment to work with Congress on immigration reform. The Taoiseach and I very much welcomed this commitment and emphasised the importance of addressing the situation in a positive and sympathetic way.

During the St. Patrick's Day period, I also had a detailed meeting on immigration issues with four organisations in the Boston area, including the two main Irish immigration centres there. I warmly commend the role and work of the immigration centres in the US, in particular the support, information and advice which they make available to our communities there. Funding by my Department to these organisations increased by 83% last year. I am pleased that the substantial increase in funding which I have secured for emigrant services in 2005 will enable even further support to be given to them this year.

The Deputy can be assured that the issues of our undocumented citizens and immigration reform have the highest priority for the Government. Through the ongoing efforts of our embassy and the contacts of the Taoiseach, myself and Cabinet colleagues with political leaders in the US, we will continue to encourage and support all measures that benefit Irish citizens.