Speech #960330137

Robert McClory (RIL) and Hamilton Fish. Jr. (RNY). In addition to five public meetings of the Commissioners. we have held 12 open hearings throughout the country so that private individuals. interest groups and experts can present their views and recommendations on immigration issues and 25 public consultations with experts and representatives of various groups in specific issues. During the course of these hearings with numerous witnesses. we have discussed the economic and social problems facing newlyarrived Indochinese as well as Cubans and Haitians. The recent arrival of thousands of Haitian and Cuban refugees. especially at a time when this country is undergoing serious economic problems. has led many observers to speculate about how many immigrants we can absorb each year. While recommending that the back door be closed. the Commission is likely to recommend that we set an annual immigration ceiling. at a number not yet determined. and that we take much more effective measures to reduce the flow of large numbers of illegal immigrants. To the greatest extent possible we should try to involve the world community in the process of resettling refugees. The Commission is considering the establishment of a Western Hemisphere Immigration Commission so that all countries of the region can work together in creating a regional immigration and refugee policy. The Commission is determined to restore U.S. immigration policy to U.S. control and we will need international cooperation as well as our own determination in order to do that. The Commission is likely to reaffirm Americas historic liberal immigration policy in the American national interest. Research shows immigrants (including refugees) contribute to economic growth. national security. cultural development and the strength of the U.S. in international affairs. The question of a large scale temporary worker program. frequently debated in Congress. is one under intense discussion.*