asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government have had any discussions in recent months with the United States authorities regarding relaxation of American immigration laws as they affect Irish citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - American Immigration Laws.
345.
It has become increasingly difficult to obtain immigrant status in the United States of America in recent years. In practice only those with close relatives already there can have any great confidence that they can get such a status. This situation, however, arises out of general United States policy on immigration. There is no particular quota for Ireland, nor is it possible for any country to negotiate special treatment for its citizens. At present the US legislation provides annually for 270,000 preference immigration visas, divided into six categories. The quotas in each category are open world wide to all, on an equal basis. There are no country quotas, other than a ceiling on immigrants from any one country. This ceiling is not relevant to Ireland where the numbers eligible are much lower.
Since there is no question of negotiating a special provision for Ireland, the Irish Government has had no discussions with the United States Government to that end.
However, in contacts with the United States authorities we have indicated that it would be helpful if more Irish people were permitted to go to work in the United States to broaden their experience. In areas such as student work visas and other areas where it may be relevant, the Government will continue to strive to obtain as full an allocation as possible for Irish citizens.