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for larger version       Weiner Honored For Irish Aid
Weiner, who was presented with the award by Ben Briscoe, son of the former Mayor, was honored for his work in Congress on immigration issues that impact the Irish community. In Congress, Weiner has fought to protect the Schumer Diversity Visa Program, which sets aside visas for Irish immigrants. In 2004, he fought for a similar visa program, which allows young people from economically disadvantaged parts of Northern Ireland and the six border counties of Ireland to work and train in the United States. Weiner also garnered congressional support for “the Good Friday Agreement”, which became a blueprint for lasting peace in Northern Ireland. “Immigrants built our great City and will build an even greater future,” said Rep. Weiner. “Irish-Americans and Jewish-Americans have a long and proud history of living and working together in this City. Today, we are joining together to overcome new challenges that affect Irish immigrants.” “Emerald Isle works to protect Irish-Americans and their interests,” said Brian O’Dwyer, the chair of EIIC. “Congressman Weiner has been a consistent friend of Irish-Americans and no one deserves this award more.” EIIC was established in 1988 to provide day-to-day assistance to recent Irish immigrants, many of whom were undocumented. The Center has since broadened the scope of its services beyond securing visas and green cards for thousands of immigrants, to include job-training, employment placement services, and voter registration. The Center has become a leading organization in New York’s Irish immigrant community. Past Briscoe award recipients include Senator Charles Schumer, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and Attorney General Eliot Spitzer.
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