So much so that he is now calling on the Taoiseach to make the plight of the undocumented Irish in the United States one of his priorities for 2018.

50,000 Irish citizens are estimated to be living in the United States without residency rights. "The threat of deportation is more real than it has been in the past number of years due to the hard-line on immigration being pursued by the Trump administration," he said.

"The crackdown on illegal immigration has intensified in the run up to Christmas, the number of Irish deported from across the US since the Trump administration took power has risen to 34 from 26 last year, according to the most recent deportation figures.

"There has been an increase across the board of 30% in deportations since the election of President Trump."

He adds: “2018 needs to see progress for these 50,000 Irish people who have made America their home. Earlier this year, the Taoiseach appointed Deputy John Deasy as a special envoy for the undocumented Irish in the US.

"It’s time for the work of the Government to start to bear fruit. Families here in Ireland, in addition to the 50,000 in the United States are desperately worried about their futures.

“In the run up to Christmas, this situation becomes more acute and prominent. Our citizens need to know that their government is doing its best for them, and not just going through the motions with the US administration.

“Results are what they want and need in the run up to Christmas. They need engagement and action from the Taoiseach and the Government, 2018 must be the year for progress for the undocumented,” concluded Daly.

Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade Darragh O’Brien TD has said that the issue of the undocumented Irish must be kept to the fore of the political agenda.

Deputy O’Brien made his comments following a recent visit by members of the Foreign Affairs and Trade Committee to the United States.

Deputy O’Brien said, “During my recent visit to the United States I used the opportunity to raise amongst other things the issue of the undocumented Irish.

"I met with officials from the State Department and also the Friends of Ireland Congressional Group.

“During these meetings I stressed the need for the undocumented Irish to be kept to the fore of the political agenda both in Ireland and the United States.

"I also emphasised the need for both of our Governments to explore measures which could resolve this long standing issue.

“This time of year can be particularly difficult for the undocumented Irish and their families as they face another Christmas unable to return to Ireland.

"It is imperative that we continue to highlight this issue and work in cooperation with all levels of the United States administration to gain political will and consensus so we can move forward and resolve this matter.

“Thousands of Irish people have made their homes and their lives in the United States and have made a positive contribution to their adopted country.

"They are part of the fabric of both of our countries and are a key link in US-Irish relations.
Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade Darragh O’Brien TD has said that the issue of the undocumented Irish must be kept to the fore of the political agenda.
“The Government must continue to press this issue and highlight the benefits of providing a legal pathway for the undocumented for all concerned.

He concluded: "I believe it would be mutually beneficial and would help strengthen and enhance the bond between our two nations.”