Many things did change, such as the economy and the security issues.

I echo the common sentiments on security.

The #'s might actually be involved to the economy.

A short while ago, I read an article about how disenchanted some young Irish were when they actually got to the US on such type of visits in previous summers. They hoped to land jobs here, work hard to save money for when they get back home for college.

The article went on to say that they were struggling to find jobs, and most came away without one.

I have no doubt that they are aware how rough a job market is in certain areas of the U.S., and because of that, they might have chose to go elsewhere.