Congressman Bill Pascrell, a New Jersey Democrat who died August 21 aged 87, was a longtime supporter of the bid by Malachy McAllister to remain in the United States.
And when that bid finally ended in June, 2020, Pascrell loudly joined joined the bipartisan chorus of condemnation following McAllister's deportation from the U.S., this during the Trump administration.
McAllister's New Jersey home was in the congressman's district, the ninth.
“For over 20 years, Malachy McAllister has been a valuable part of our North Jersey community, said Rep. Pascrell at the time.
"His roots are in New Jersey. America is where he belongs. His deportation at Trump’s hand is a heartless decision and separates a man with medical issues from his family for no good reason that puts him and his family at risk.
"For years, my office has fought for a resolution to Mr. McAllister’s case. This is not the end. I will not give up trying to get Mr. McAllister back to the United States so he can remain here with his family permanently.”
During his twenty eight years as a member of the House of Representatives Rep. Pascrell joined fellow members from both parties in a number of initiatives directed at Ireland, including support for a U.S. envoy to the North.
The congressman's funeral took place today, Wednesday, August 28.
