Speech #880136193

Walter. Congressman Walter was one of the principal architects of ICEM when it was established over 10 years ago and. throughout that time. he followed ICEMs progress closely. even during the days of his illness. The continuing need today for the migration committees work in resettling refugees. reuniting families and placement of workers in oversea areas where they are needed and desire to immigrate constitutes a lasting tribute to Congressman Walters coLcern for the problems of refugees and separation of families. His contribution found expression in many of the legislative actions taken by our Congress following the Second World War. Among the more recent bills which he sponsored is the Refugee and Migration Assistance Act of 1962. which provides the continuing authority for appropriation of funds for US. contributions to ICEM. as well as to Cuban and other refugee programs. I hope that we might bring to the attention of the Council a new immigration legislation which I have recommended to the Congress. This would perpetuate our policy of effecting the reuniting of families and admitting refugees and immigrants without discrimination. matters which I know are of deep interest to the members of the Migration Committee. On previous occasions I have referred to ICEMs potential for assisting Latin American countries in selecting. recruiting and receiving the skilled and semiskilled immigrants who can contribute so much to the growth and development of the economies of these countries. I am confident that you will urge your colleagues in the Council to continue to develop and expand ICEMs efforts in this area. which hold such promise for Latin America. Please convey to the Council the strong continuing interest of the U.S.