Congressman Delahunt pledges leadership on ILIR reform proposals

Congressman Bill Delahunt (D-MA) shows his support for the undocumented at a recent meeting with Boston ILIR leaders Jimmy Gallagher and Hugh Meehan.

On Wednesday November 4, Congressman Bill Delahunt (D-MA) met in his Washington, DC office with Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform leaders as the fight on behalf of the undocumented continues in vigorous fashion.

ILIR National President Ciaran Staunton and Massachusetts Directors Hugh Meehan and Jimmy Gallagher met with the Congressman to discuss the issue of reform and the situation facing the undocumented Irish community, particularly in his congressional district. 

Congressman Delahunt is an influential member of the United States House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Judiciary Committee where much of the future of immigration reform legislation lies.

“Congressman Delahunt could not have been more supportive of our proposals in support of comprehensive immigration reform and a system guaranteeing future migration for the Irish," said Staunton. “We were touched and humbled by his graciousness and solidarity on the issues. And we were deeply honored when he told us we could regard him, ‘as our leader in the House on immigration reform.’"

“Not only that,” added Gallagher, “Congressman Delahunt went out of his way to show concern and compassion for the undocumented Irish in his District.”

Staunton concluded by saying, "In the past we were able to celebrate the Donnelly and Morrison visas. Hopefully, we will soon be able to rejoice in the Delahunt visas.”

Congressman Delahunt praised ILIR’s leadership in giving voice to the Irish dimension of the immigration reform campaign. He also expressed his support in making sure the lengthy detention process of the undocumented in Massachusetts would be addressed in the near future.

"He didn't realize it was that bad," said Meehan. "We explained to him that in California the process is usually only four days and [Delahunt] said that he would work with us on that. It was an excellent meeting overall."

"ILIR has done a great job letting Congress know Irish America supports fair and comprehensive immigration reform," said Delahunt. "I look forward to highlighting these issues when they come before my Committee and on the floor of Congress.

“The Irish have made a fantastic contribution to the development of our great country through hard work and sacrifice. I pledge to ILIR and the Irish American community my help in changing the tough situation facing many of today’s Irish Immigrants, both in my district and across the United States."