AN Irish priest facing deportation from the US said a tearful farewell to his parishioners yesterday, while he awaits an uncertain fate.Donegal native Father Cathal Gallagher (58), who has worked in a remote diocese in South Dakota for the past 10 years, learned from US Immigration that he was 'out of status' in May and was told he had to leave the country by July 1.
The news prompted a major campaign by members of his parish who lobbied congress representatives to have the decision reversed.
But while US immigration officials are continuing to consider whether to re-open his case for review, his bishop has issued him with notice to stand down because of the uncertainty of his status.
"I have been told because of my legal status I have to leave. For the first time in my life, I have absolutely no control over what is going to happen to me," he said.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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