Wednesday, March 07, 2007

RTE: Democrats to publish immigration plan

Wednesday, 7 March 2007 11:46

Democrats in the US Senate are expected to lay out their plans later today for comprehensive immigration reform.

At the same time, thousands of supporters of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform are expected in Washington for a rally.

Last year, a bipartisan immigration bill passed the US Senate but was blocked by Republicans in the House of Representatives.

Following victory in last November's midterm elections, Democrats believe they are in a stronger position to push through immigration legislation this year.

One of the architects of the Immigration Reform Bill, Senator Ted Kennedy, told RTÉ News that it would be a hard fought battle, but that he believed immigration reform could be passed this year.

He said he believes the mood of the American people has shifted on the issue and 'most people want a workable solution'.

It is estimated that there are almost 12m undocumented people in the US.

Democratic proposals are expected to be laid out in Washington later today. However, a bill is not expected to be published for at least another week.

Senator Kennedy is also scheduled to speak at a rally organised by the ILIR.

For a link to this article on the RTE website, click HERE.

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