Nora Owen
Question:61 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he got commitment from the US Assistant Secretary of State for the issuing of visas to all those Irish people who wish to travel to America for the World Cup.
Written Answers. - World Cup Visas.
When the US Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Ms Mary Ryan, called on me on 8 December during her visit to Dublin I emphasised the Government's concern that the US authorities be as flexible and sensitive as possible in processing visa applications from supporters of the Irish team wishing to travel to the US for the World Cup next year. In the light of my earlier representations to Secretary of State, Warren Christopher, in Washington in May and November, Ms Ryan was fully aware of our anxieties in the matter.
Assistant Secretary Ryan underlined that the US authorities want no obstacle put in the way of genuine supporters wishing to travel. The US Embassy is making the necessary practical arrangments to handle the anticipated large volume of applications and Ms Ryan confirmed that all visa applications will be considered as sympathetically and expeditiously as possible.
We will remain in close contact with the US authorities on all aspects of World Cup preparations during the period ahead.