FF politicians to hold talks with Irish emigrant groups in US

Three Fianna Fáil politicians are due to travel to the United States today to discuss the situation facing illegal Irish immigrants in the country.

Junior Minister Tony Killeen, Limerick TD John Cregan and Senator Paschal Mooney are due to meet the Irish Apostolate Conference in Washington DC and Irish emigrant groups in New York during the trip.

An estimated 50,000 Irish people are living illegally in the United States without proper documentation.

These people are usually unable to travel home to Ireland for family events or holidays as they would not be allowed back into the United States.

The US government is considering proposals that would allow immigrants to become legal US residents if they register with the authorities and pay a fine.