The Fine Gael spokesman on tourism called on the Taoiseach to discuss the status of Irish immigrants in the US in the forthcoming summit with President Bush.
Mr Jimmy Deenihan urged Mr Ahern to focus attention on the plight of the undocumented Irish immigrants who could not risk travelling home for weddings, funerals and other family occasions because they were afraid they would not be able to return.
"Many of these immigrants have made their lives in the United States, making a valuable contribution to the workforce, marrying and raising families there.
"Current immigration legislation means that they cannot visit home for significant occasions and bring their children to visit their parental homeland."
Mr Deenihan welcomed the proposal to introduce a new temporary work permit and an immigration reform Bill, which had been proposed by Senator Edward Kennedy.
"I believe the progression of such legislation to be a key concern in the relationship between Ireland and the US.
"President Bush should reciprocate the support he has received from the Taoiseach by recognising that the status of our immigrant community should be a priority."
Mr Deenihan said they could not allow a Government with "a shameful track record in the abandonment of the Irish community in the UK to also turn its back on Irish immigrants in the US."
