Madam, – I am deeply mystified by Mark Hennesey’s report (“US expected to ease immigration but bilateral accord on illegals ruled out”, July 1st). He reported that congresswoman Nydia Velazquez stated that Ireland had “no chance” of reaching a “bilateral deal for illegals”. That is entirely correct as no such deal has ever been pursued by the Irish American immigration lobby or the Irish Government.
What has been sought is a bilateral accord that would allow future legal workers to live in the US for a two-year period which could be extended. This was granted to Australia a few years ago. That E3 visa does not cover illegals nor was it ever seen to be able to do so. This issue will be covered by comprehensive reform. I think reporting on such a sensitive subjectneeds to be done with a little more knowledge of the laws that Velazquez was speaking about. That is the least our undocumented should expect. – Yours, etc,