Panelists, a live audience and members of two communities central to the illegal immigration debate discussed the issue Thursday as part of News 12 Long Island's Illegal on Long Island series.

For three months, News 12 has examined the divisive issue from every angle. During the special two-hour meeting, those involved showed just how far apart they stand on illegal immigration.

Six panelists, including immigration advocates and community activists, frequently became heated while passionately defending their views.

Rev. Allan Ramirez, an immigrant advocate, said, "You are delusional if you think that people will stop coming into this country."

Viewers voiced their opinions by calling in, e-mailing and posting messages on the News12.com Sound Off board. A live studio audience added to the lively atmosphere.

"Everything that they have done is illegal," said one female audience member. "Our government defines them as illegal aliens. You may have a problem with that but that's how our government defines them, as illegal aliens."

News 12 Long Island correspondents received feedback in Farmingville, a hotbed for day laborer controversy, and inside a Glen Cove day laborer hiring hall. Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy, who spearheads the crackdown of illegal immigration in his county, joined the debate via satellite from Farmingville.