Undocumented Irish In US Emerge

A major effort is underway in the US to secure immigration reform and give undocumented Irish immigrants citizenship in the US.

Senator Charles Schumer of New York is leading the effort in the senate to create new legislation to swing at least five key Republican senators behind the immigration reform proposals.

Tens of thousands of Irish undocumented anxiously await the latest efforts this year to bring about reform. The last effort to create a bill, called the Kennedy/McCain immigration bill failed when Republicans refused to support it.

Fine Gael Community Affairs Spokesman Michael Ring today said he was encouraged by the latest push. He said the prospect of a reform package including plans to legalise the status of undocumented immigrants holds out new hope for the thousands of Irish people in this position.

"It is very encouraging to have this glimmer of hope for the undocumented Irish so early in the New Year. Senator Schumer is a proven political operator who has been charged with the task of bringing a group of Republican senators on side in support of immigration reform.

"Among them is Senator John McCain who, along with the late Ted Kennedy, was responsible for the last attempt at a reform bill and it is to be hoped he will be supportive again on this occasion. Schumer must also swing the support of at least four other Republican senators and I wish him well in his efforts.

"Suggestions that this issue may come to the fore soon after President Obama's Health Care Reform Bill is passed are welcome.

"The undocumented Irish and their families here at home have waited a long time for some progress to secure their status so they can lead a normal life while living, working and rearing their families in the States. I hope that these encouraging signs point to a real breakthrough at last."

The new Bill, which Senator Schumer and aides to President Obama are working on, is expected to contain strong enforcement measures in addition to the plan to legalize those living in the US illegally.

President Obama has given a commitment to take up the issue soon after his health care reform bill passes.

(DW/BMcC)