Bull. Illegals go back and forth depending on their job prospects and family situation (granted, this is easier those coming from Mexico, but not as likely for those from other countries in Central America). If we make it easy for them to stay, the chances are better that they will stay.
I think something could be done to give SOME illegals work permits, but I oppose any path to citizenship. Giving citizenship to illegal aliens devalues the worth of being an American citizen and undermines the rule of law.
The old bracero program worked OK. I would not have a problem with giving temporary permits to screened Mexicans and allow them to come up here to pick crops for six to nine months per calendar year, but not for the entire year. That way they will maintain their homes and families in Mexico. They can earn money in the U.S. and then go back to Mexico and build their casitas down there. The key is that they keep their home and their dependents in Mexico.