A man from Donegal who had been living in Boston for more than 15 years was deported back to Ireland recently, following his detention by US immigration officials for visa violations. The 40-year-old was sent from Logan International Airport in Boston to Dublin on Friday evening. He is a father of two American-born children, aged nine and ten, and used to own a small construction business near Boston.

As reported by The Journal, the man, who chose to remain anonymous, had overstayed his travel visa but had applied for a green card three years ago. He was taken into custody last month and spent time in a detention center operated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to a driving-related offense.

His lawyer, John Foley, based in Boston, mentioned that the man is now striving to find ways to maintain a strong relationship with his children in the US. Foley stated that his client is relieved that his personal ordeal is over and just wants to move forward with his life. However, he is saddened by the fact that his bond with his children will not be as he desires.

Foley revealed that he had requested his client's release under strict monitoring with an ankle bracelet, but the authorities denied the plea without hesitation. He expressed frustration over the lack of flexibility in dealing with US officials, highlighting a shift in mentality among law enforcement and immigration officers under the current administration.

Deportation statistics under the Trump administration have not been officially disclosed by ICE, but reports indicate a significant increase in deportations in recent months. Foley noted a growing fear of deportation among Irish immigrants and other communities in the US, emphasizing the impact of stringent immigration policies on individuals with prior criminal records.

He criticized the immigration and deportation strategies implemented by the Trump administration as contrary to American values, expressing concern over the heightened level of fear and uncertainty among immigrant populations.