Monday 22nd April 2013

A vital meeting between Congressman Paul Ryan, former Republican vice-presidential candidate, and the Chicago Irish lobby for US Immigration Reform is to take place later today (Monday).

“This meeting is vital because without achieving significant support from the Republican Party in the US Congress this reform plan, which could allow up to 50,000 undocumented Irish to work legally in the United States, will not be enacted.

“Since the recent US presidential election Congressman Ryan has emerged as a leading voice within the Republicans in Congress for action on immigration reform, as a direct result of his experiences in the presidential election,” stated Denis Naughten.

“This meeting will involve key people like Fr. Billy Lawless, Chairman Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform and Roscommon native Cyril Regan, President Chicago Irish Immigrant Support, who have been to the fore in progressing the publication of the new law to provide a 13-year pathway to citizenship for the undocumented Irish in the United States.

“The proposed law would allow any person who was resident in the United States before 31st December 2011, and who has remained there since that date, to be eligible to apply for a six year temporary residency status which would allow them to legally enter and leave the US.”

Notes:

The bill is titled the “Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013.” After the introduction of a new border control strategy those who are undocumented in the US can apply for “registered provisional immigrant status”. After 10 years, those granted that status can apply for green cards granting them permanent residency & also the ability to apply for US citizenship.

The legislation can be read here

A one page summary of the bill is available here

A frequently asked questions (FAQ) document is available here