The American Embassy in Dublin is campaigning this year to fight the decline in J1 applicants. Numbers of students applying for the programme have dipped since the September 11 attack, reaching a low point in 2004, when only 4,500 applied, down from figures well over 10,000. In 2005 the figure jumped to 6,800, but was… Continue reading US Embassy encourages J1 applicants
US candidate releases statement on Ireland
US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama released a foreign-policy statement on Ireland shortly after he officially declared his candidacy. In the op-ed, which was carried in full by New York’s Irish Echo and the Irish Times, he praises the contributions of Irish immigrants and expresses his support for comprehensive immigration reform to benefit the 12… Continue reading US candidate releases statement on Ireland
Éan working to ensure radio included in broadcasting legislation
Éan has been working to ensure that Irish radio broadcasts will be available to Irish communities in Europe as part of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2006. The original bill as it was introduced in the Seanad made provision for television broadcasting, but not radio. Ean and Éan member Enda O’Kane worked to contact senators to… Continue reading Éan working to ensure radio included in broadcasting legislation
US immigrants face application fee hikes
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services this week announced proposals for major hikes in application fees. The increases, in some cases amounting to 500%, are expected to go through in June. The proposed application fee increases include:– $905 for a green card application; thecurrent fee is $325.– $1,370 for adjustment of status from temporary to lawful… Continue reading US immigrants face application fee hikes
Irish Abroad Unit outlines its work
The Irish Abroad Unit updated the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs about their work and the current status of Irish emigrants earlier this month. Their update focused on the achievements of 2006 and their plans for 2007. Ray Bassett of the Unit spoke of the possibility that immigration reform could be passed by the US… Continue reading Irish Abroad Unit outlines its work
Sligo County Council says returning emigrants have right to build homes
The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council has told the Sligo Association in London that the county is helping to bring emigrants home, according to a story in the Sligo Weekender. Councillor Jim McGarry said, “From Sligo County Council’s perspective, I am pleased that the status of returning emigrants has been actively promoted in our County… Continue reading Sligo County Council says returning emigrants have right to build homes