Minister Ahern warmly welcomes Kennedy/McCain proposals on US immigration reform

Mr Dermot Ahern T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs, today warmly welcomed the tabling before the US Senate of an immigration reform bill by Senators Edward Kennedy and John McCain.

“In my meetings with both Senator Kennedy and Senator McCain, and with other political leaders in Washington, I have been greatly encouraged by the strength of their commitment to immigration reform.  I now warmly welcome their important, timely and very positive contribution to advancing the debate on this sensitive issue.  The priority now is for all concerned to intensify their lobbying in what is a difficult environment.  In this regard, I have consistently made it clear that for the Ambassador and the Embassy in Washington, and the staff of the Consulates in the US, this issue has the highest priority.”

The Minister added that he also wished again to welcome the commitment of President Bush, as conveyed to the Taoiseach and the Minister at their meeting on St. Patrick's Day, to work closely with Congress in advancing immigration reform.

Note for Editors

Details of the Kennedy / McCain bill are available on http://kennedy.senate.gov

ENDS+++
12 May 2005