According to a report, United States government figures recorded €262,000 were raised by Sinn féin in American fundraising during the six month period until last April. It is supposedly illegal to use foreign funds for political activity in Ireland. The funds according to Sinn féin are to organise visits and events. According to the report, Mary Lou McDonald attended the National Convention of the Ancient Order of the Hibernians in July: And reportedly Gerry Adam’s attended a St Patrick’s day event held by the mayor of New York in 2018. Previously he was banned from further U.S. interviews after a controversial interview saw him condoning violence, specifically the murder of a northern Ireland mother. Despite condoning murder he is reportedly a member of the upper house of the Irish parliament. Believed to be the legislative body. Members are reportedly chosen by an unpublished group, the toaseach having a nominal role.