Undocumented immigrants across the United States were on high alert on Sunday night as immigration officials began a sweep on thousands of people living in the country illegally. Among those who may be affected by the new clampdown are undocumented Irish people living in the US illegally. The mayor of Miami, Francis Suarez, said the city had “not seen a lot of movement”, as he pledged to protect the city’s undocumented immigrants. “While most Irish undocumented arrived in the country legally and overstayed a visa, those coming over the border illegally are in fact entitled to legal representation and to a hearing,” he said. In contrast, undocumented residents who are picked up for visa violations are typically detained and deported immediately.

Source: The Irish Times July 15, 2019 00:00 UTC