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"We did discuss
the question of immigration, which is so important to the fabric
of our people. And I know that in this country, this is an issue
that the administration and the president are reflecting
upon...We discussed that very constructively this morning,"
Kenny said at a lunch event, hosted by House Speaker Paul Ryan
at the U.S. Capitol after the two met at the White House.
Kenny's tone was much more convivial than when he spoke in the
Irish parliament in June last year, describing the then
presidential candidate's rhetoric as "racist and dangerous."
Trump has vowed to take a hard line against illegal immigrants,
promising to speed up deportations, especially against those
with criminal records.
Kenny told reporters after their meeting that he would recommend
that any illegal Irish immigrants living in the United States
with what he called "small issues," such as parking fees or
traffic violations, clear those as a way to reduce anxiety about
their status in the country.
The two also discussed the effects of Britain's exit from the
European Union, as well as Northern Ireland, where a recent
provincial election saw nationalists Sinn Fein gain ground,
Kenny said.
Kenny has signaled his intention to step down as Ireland's prime
minister, a move some expect could occur after he returns from
his U.S. visit.
Trump did not publicly address the illegal immigration topic but
he did tout the contributions of Irish immigrants to the United
States.
Trump told reporters that he planned to visit the country,
declaring "I love Ireland."
(This version of the story corrects paragraph 5 to say "small
issues" instead of "small legal issues.")
(Reporting by Elizabeth Culliford in New York; Editing by Lisa
Shumaker)
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