Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentlewoman from California for her strong support of H. Res. 405. I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 405, which expresses the strong support of the U.S. House of Representatives for the immediate implementation of the July 8, 2006, United Nations-brokered agreement between President Papadopoulos of Cyprus and the Turkish Cypriot community leader, Mr. Mehmet Ali Talat. More than 33 years after the invasion and occupation of Cyprus by Turkish troops, the country remains divided and has the longest running peacekeeping force in the history of the United Nations. It is important that there is forward movement on properly preparing the grounds for serious negotiations that will lead to sustainable and lasting peace. The international community has helped shepherd an agreement on a process, the Gambari process, that points the way forward to comprehensive negotiations that will lead to the reunification of the island, its people, institutions and economy in a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. The United Nations Security Council, the European Union, and the United States have all played key roles in trying to bring a lasting and fair resolution to the division of the island. On July 8, 2006, President Papadopoulos and Mr. Talat agreed, under the auspices of the United Nations, to the establishment of technical committees and working groups to examine the issues affecting the daily lives of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot people, as well as issues of substance. H. Res. 405 recognizes the fact that the status quo is unacceptable and that its prolongation would have negative consequences for the Turkish and Greek Cypriots. It also reinforces the proposition that a comprehensive settlement is both desirable and possible and should not be further delayed. In an effort to jump-start the July 8 agreement, President Papadopoulos invited Mr. Talat to a meeting that took place this year on September 5. The two leaders agreed on the need for the earliest start of the Gambari process and to continue their contact through the U.N. and to meet again when appropriate. As a member of the European Union, the Republic of Cyprus has proven itself a committed and influential partner in Europe. Despite its forced division, Cyprus's successful social and economic integration into the European Union is a testament to its focus and dedication to democratic values and regional cooperation. In addition, Cyprus has a long history of working cooperatively with the United States on issues of international defense and security and continues to do so in the global war on terror. Cyprus is also a good friend to this country. In the summer of 2006, Cyprus served as the principal transit for 15,000 Americans evacuating Lebanon. Our citizens were provided with food, shelter, and medical care. It is now time for Congress to demonstrate its strong support of efforts toward the reunification of Cyprus by passing H. Res. 405, calling for the immediate implementation of the July 8 agreement in its entirety and without deviation from the process. H. Res. 405 gives a strong message of support for a reunified Cyprus under a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with a single sovereignty, single international personality, and single citizenship with respect to human rights and fundamental freedoms of all Cypriots. I wish to thank Chairman Lantos and Ranking Member Ros-Lehtinen and all of my colleagues who have cosponsored H. Res. 405. I thank them for recognizing what a significant step this great representative body is taking by telling the world community that the sad and tragic division of Cyprus should be no longer. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, early this year, the U.S. and Brazil signed a memorandum of understanding on biofuels cooperation. This document symbolizes not only a shared interest in reducing energy vulnerability, but also a growing relationship between our two countries based on the common goal of regional stability and prosperity throughout the Western Hemisphere. I am pleased to learn of the progress made under the United States- Brazil memorandum of understanding and applaud the proactive efforts being taken by both of our countries in confronting the constraints of oil dependence. As Hugo Chavez continues to exploit Venezuela's oil supply to spread his propaganda across the Western Hemisphere, it is essential that the U.S. and Brazil continue to lead the way in diminishing our historical dependence on oil by finding alternative ways to satisfy our energy needs. Additionally, while I appreciate the growing and valuable role of Brazil as a strategic partner, we must remain vigilant of Brazil's own activities. As the U.S. continues to work to promote freedom and democracy in the hemisphere, we continue to face challenges by the likes of Venezuela's Chavez and Bolivia's Morales, under the tyrannical influences of Castro. We must be cognizant of the fact that President da Silva was in fact a founding member of the Foro de Sao Paolo, which plays host to these men and promoter to their increasingly anti-American rhetoric throughout the region. Brazil has a history of noncompliance with the IAEA obligations and an expressed interest in pursuing future enrichment programs. This mixed with the increasing of rogue regimes, like Iran and Syria, to make inroads into the unstable political, economic and social worlds of Latin America requires the U.S. be vigilant in our assessment of Brazil and the region as a whole. As biofuels cooperation allows our two countries to work increasingly closely together, I am hopeful that continued success in bilateral relations, hemispheric integration, and energy diversification will help to mitigate these challenges. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. I'm pleased to rise in support of H. Res. 32, which denounces violence against women and recognizes that women's rights are, indeed, human rights. I also would like to thank Chairman Lantos and the sponsor of this resolution, my good friend and my chairwoman, Ms. Jackson-Lee, for agreeing to modify the introduced text such that it strikes all references to the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women. By striking these references and refocusing our attention on the challenges to human dignity that an alarming number of women are forced to endure around the world, H. Res. 32 is now a much stronger, bipartisan resolution which can be universally embraced. H. Res. 32 recognizes that democracy, political stability, public health and economic development are linked to the welfare of women and children. Two-thirds of the world's work is performed by women, yet women still earn less than 5 percent of its income, own less than 1 percent of its property, and make up nearly 70 percent of the people living in poverty unfortunately. The lack of legal standing of women in many societies makes them especially susceptible to poverty, exploitation, abuse and, inevitably, infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Yet as women serve as the provider and educator for their families in many traditional societies, their exploitation threatens the prosperity of their entire family and community. As such, the resolution calls upon governments to address the entrenched gender inequalities which threaten development, as well as national security. It also calls on governments to criminalize such atrocious practices as female genital mutilation, domestic violence, ``honor'' killings, acid burnings, dowry deaths, and other gender-based crimes. This resolution does not seek to bestow upon women any special privilege. It simply recognizes the fact that no matter where one lives, and no matter what their race, religion or culture, we are all human beings who deserve the opportunity to live in dignity and free from oppression or abuse based solely on our gender. I urge unanimous support of H. Res. 32. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 3121. This bill, the Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act, takes important steps towards bolstering the protection provided to homeowners in disaster-prone areas who face a constant threat of flood and windstorm damage. Nearly all of my constituents and my fellow Floridians fall into this category. In Florida, especially, H.R. 3121 will help to ease the homeowners' insurance crisis that grows worse everyday. Expanding the federal flood-insurance program to include wind damage simply makes sense. Those who have their homes flooded are often in the path of destructive storms that wield powerful winds. Common sense would dictate that if we are seeking to help protect homeowners from the liability that comes from destructive natural disasters like hurricanes, we would consider all of the forces of nature associated with these storms. Instead of arguing today why we should include wind damage into this program, the discussion should rather be about why we have gone for so long without it. While I understand the costs associated with this bill are an issue with some of my colleagues, the cost of doing nothing is much greater. Many of the homeowners in my District, in the State of Florida, and in disaster-prone areas throughout the United States spend each day staring down the barrel of a gun--waiting for the storm to hit that will put them and their families on a path to financial ruin. We have a chance to do something about this today. It is this body's responsibility to act in the interest and welfare of the American people. Vote YES on H.R. 3121, and vote yes to protect millions of homeowners and their families.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, Charles W. ``Wes'' Kearney, Sr. of Brandon, Florida, passed away on August 11, 2007, in the loving presence of his friends and family. Wes was a well-known and respected member of the community, whose entrepreneurial spirit and generous character not only defined him as a person, but played an important role in the lives of others. During World War II, Wes served in the United States Navy, joining the United States in the fight to defend our Nation and to defend those who could not defend themselves. His service to this country is honored and greatly admired. Following the War, Wes grabbed a hold of the American dream and eventually founded many companies under the Kearney name. Through generous philanthropy, Wes used the success of his businesses to improve his community and help others. Wes will be best remembered as a man whose virtue and integrity is unmatched, as well as someone who was dearly dedicated to his family and friends. He leaves behind a beautiful family, and is survived by his lovely wife Joanne, his son Bryan and wife Dawn and their children, Skye and Sean; son Barry and wife Susan and their children, Tara and Logan; and son Bing and his children, son Chad and his wife Shayna, Chase, Clay and Carlie. As we celebrate his life, we know that he will be dearly missed.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, before I begin, some of you may have noticed that I have a different haircut. This past August, I kept a promise to my local American Cancer Society chapter that I would shave my head if they met their fundraising goal. My promise was grounded in an effort to bring greater awareness to the American Cancer Society's work on finding a cure for a disease that some estimates show will claim more than 559,000 lives in 2007. The statistics on cancer are mind numbing. Cancer strikes one out of two men and one out of three women, killing 1,500 people every day. Having been at the front lines of cancer research and services for more than half a century, the American Cancer Society remains a pillar of hope for millions of Americans facing this dreadful disease. I encourage my colleagues to get out there and support the work of organizations like the American Cancer Society. The war against cancer is a war we must, and can win--but only together. Well, it has been more than 9 months since the 110th Congress convened under the leadership of Democrats who promised the American people many things, but have since failed to deliver on many of their commitments. This is most evident in recent approval ratings of this Democrat-run Congress, which have reached historic lows. These numbers say everything about the failed promises of this majority. During the 2006 campaign, the Democrats pledged to rein in spending, yet their budget proposal contains more than $217 billion in tax increases, representing the second largest tax increase in American history, and proposes spending $23 billion above the amount proposed in the President's budget blueprint. This is not the kind of reform promised by the new Democrat majority; rather, it is very reminiscent of the old Democrat majority that took more money out of the American taxpayers' wallets, while creating new wasteful spending and sprawling government programs. Now, if the numbers are too much to bear, perhaps we can look at a particular issue of great concern to my constituents, my fellow Floridians, and residents of disaster-prone regions throughout the United States. That is the outrageous cost of homeowners' insurance. Our national economy, and the quality of life for many Americans is severely burdened by the fact that disaster-prone areas, like Florida, continue to suffer from an insurance market that has overblown its rates and refused to take the necessary risk to ensure that every homeowner has access to affordable, quality homeowners' insurance. Earlier this week, my Democrat colleagues took to the House floor to proclaim their outrage over the troubles homeowners are currently facing throughout the United States as a result of the tanking subprime mortgage market. I want you to know that the concern of this body should focus on these same homeowners, in addition to the millions of homeowners who can pay their mortgage, yet are not adequately insured. This disparity is a tragedy of equal or greater measure. You see, faced with increasingly expensive and limited insurance options, Florida embodies the kinds of problems plaguing homeowners in high-risk areas across the country. Owning a home is fundamental to the ``American Dream.'' It should not be an insurmountable burden. Sadly though, such a possibility is slowly eroding under unbelievably high homeowners' insurance. As we speak this week about improving the opportunities for existing and future homeowners, we must not forget the next catastrophe is just around the corner for millions of American homeowners. This catastrophe is not limited to the prospect of home foreclosures, but also hurricanes, flooding and other disasters both man-made and natural. If the American homeowner cannot adequately protect themselves from these dangers, then they are just as vulnerable to losing their homes as those who are facing the sub-prime credit debacle. I recently introduced legislation that would allow Gulf Coast States to pool their resources and jointly coordinate responses and preparation for major disasters. The Gulf Coast All-Hazard Readiness Act would allow the Gulf Coast States to form an interstate compact to mitigate, respond to and recover from major natural disasters. Additionally, I have cosigned important legislation that would remedy the skyrocketing cost of homeowners' insurance in disaster-prone regions of the country. These bills, H.R. 91 and H.R. 330, will go a long way to addressing a problem that is only getting worse. I implore this body to act, and for this Democrat-led majority to make good on their promise to protect American families. They can start by allowing a vote on legislation that will help families adequately protect their homes from future and almost certain disasters.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Cory L. Clark, Sr., of Plant City, FL, who was killed in Afghanistan on August 28, 2007, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Assigned to the 585th Pipeline Company, 864th Engineer Combat Battalion, stationed in Fort Lewis, WA, Sgt. Clark was an Army engineer who was rebuilding roads and bridges in war-torn Afghanistan when he was fatally wounded by an improvised explosive device while his unit crossed a bridge in Jaji, Afghanistan. I did not have the privilege of knowing Sgt. Clark personally, but by all accounts he was a courageous young man who was devoted to his country and family. Prior to joining the Army in April 2001, Cory grew up on Jenkins Street in Plant City and was a 2000 graduate of Durant High School in eastern Hillsborough County. Cory enjoyed life, seeing the world, making others smile and his mother, Wrenita's, home cooking. Most importantly, he was a beloved husband, son and father, who cherished spending time with his family. Recently promoted to Sergeant, Cory earned a great deal of recognition for his service. Among his many awards and honors are the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, 2 Army Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal and Combat Action and Weapons Qualification Badges. Madam Speaker, my heart aches for Cory's family. He is survived by his wife, Monica, and his four children, Malik Mitchell, 6; twins Cory Jr. and Quinton, both 3; and Kar-Yahna, 9 months. May God bless the Clark family and continue to watch over the country that Sgt. Clark so loved. We shall never forget him.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise in opposition to a bill that is more about politics than children's health insurance. The so-called CHAMP Act represents a missed opportunity to expand SCHIP in a focused manner to help provide health care to our Nation's neediest kids. I'm extremely disappointed that this bill raises taxes and cuts Medicare to expand the program well beyond its original intent. This bill would cut Medicare benefits to more than 45,000 of my constituents who rely on their Medicare Advantage plans for services and benefits they otherwise could not afford. Mr. Speaker, I urge our colleagues to, instead, support the motion to recommit, which will extend the SCHIP program and stop scheduled Medicare physician payment cuts without raising taxes or cutting Medicare. I will oppose this bill if the motion to recommit fails because I oppose politicizing an issue that should be above the partisan differences that too often divide us.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the conference report to H.R. 1. I want to commend Homeland Security Chairman Thompson and Ranking Member King and others for their good work on the bill. I support the conference report because I believe it will improve America's security. I sought a seat on the Homeland Security Committee so I could continue the bipartisan efforts to further strengthen our Nation's homeland defenses. I was disappointed, extremely disappointed, that this bill bypassed our committee earlier this year and was brought to the floor without the opportunity for amendment and time for meaningful debate that these serious subjects deserve. The conference report is, however, an improvement over the House bill. Although I don't have time to cover all of the provisions, I am pleased that Ranking Member King's commonsense proposal to provide civil immunity to good Samaritans who report suspicious activity is now included in this measure. I am heartened that the conference report includes two proposals that I made that were included in the rail and public transportation security bill the House passed earlier this year. The first will require the security coordinators who are developing and implementing rail security plans to be American citizens, which makes sense since U.S. citizenship is required for individuals seeking security clearances for access to classified information and materials. The second will require the physical testing of rail tank cars used to carry toxic-inhalation hazardous materials to determine how best to secure them from attack, and more accurately, a modeling analysis to better understand the real-world consequences and most effective manner to mitigate the release of such dangerous materials. Mr. Speaker, I believe this is a good bill that could have been better if we had followed regular order and given Members of the House and the Homeland Security Committee our rightful opportunity to fully review and revise its contents. I hope the majority gives us that opportunity in the future. I think this bill is a step in the right direction. Therefore, I urge adoption by this body and enactment by the President.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today not only as a Member of this body, but particularly as a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and as cochair on the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues. I stand before you today to recall an anniversary that has racked the Cypriot and Hellenic communities for the past 33 years. Mr. Speaker, even though the tragic events of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus took place so long ago, the pain and suffering of this tragic occasion still ripples throughout the Greek and Cypriot communities. This anniversary is a time for America to solemnly remember the Turkish military invasion of the Island of Cyprus, to mourn those who lost their lives, and to condemn the continued occupation. On July 20, 1974, in blatant violation of international law, Turkey violently invaded Cyprus and captured the northern part of the island. As a result of the invasion, approximately 5,000 Cypriots were killed and more than 1,400 Greek Cypriots, including four Americans of Cypriot descent, are still missing. Since the invasion, Turkey has established a heavily armed military occupation that continues to control nearly 40 percent of Cyprus. Forced expulsions of Greek Cypriots on the occupied land have left more than 160,000 displaced persons. Another tragic result of this 33-year occupation is the division of the Greek and Turkish Cypriots who since have forcibly left their homes. This cracking of the Cypriot Nation is a crime against society and the people of Cyprus that can only be resolved by ending this occupation. Since the invasion, international governing bodies and human rights groups have condemned Turkey's flagrant abuse of international law and violation of Cyprus's national sovereignty. Mr. Speaker, 33 years is just too long. The international community has helped shepherd a peace process and settlement that will unite the island, its people, institutions and economy. The United Nations Security Council, the European Union and the United States have all played key roles in trying to bring a practical and fair resolution of this 33-year nightmare. On the occasion of this anniversary, America needs to take a long and hard look at its own commitment toward helping the Turkish Cypriot crisis reach a lasting and enduring peace, free from occupation, division and oppression. As a new member of the European Union, the Republic of Cyprus has proven a committed and influential partner in Europe. Despite having a large portion of its land illegally occupied, Cyprus's successful social and economic integration into the European Community is a testament to its focus and dedication to democratic values and regional cooperation. The Republic of Cyprus has also worked alongside its European neighbors to bring about a stronger integration of Turkish and Greek Cypriot interests for the good of the island. This has included a partial lifting on restriction of movement across the ceasefire line that continues to forcibly divide Cyprus. As a result, since April of 2003, more than 13 million Greek and Turkish Cypriots have crossed without incident. Incredible. Additionally, the per capita income of Turkish Cypriots has nearly tripled in the last 3 years because of an aggressive integration policy by the Republic of Cyprus and its European neighbors. Mr. Speaker, I believe that because of this continued integration between Turkish and Greek Cypriots, and the economic and political successes that the Republic of Cyprus so readily wants to share with its neighbors, it is possible to bring closure to this 33-year occupation. Indeed, on July 8, 2006, the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Tassos Papadopoulos, and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed to formally begin consultations with the ultimate aim of a peaceful reunification and an end to Turkey's military occupation. Despite the early successes of what has since been known as the ``July 8th Agreement'' and the best efforts of the Cyprus government, the Turkish Cypriots have not followed through on their commitment to continue this dialogue and a path to peace. Let's resolve this issue, Mr. Speaker. Thirty-three years is too long. In fact, Mr. Speaker, only last week, President Papadopoulos attempted to jumpstart the Island's reunification efforts and resume the July 8 Agreement process. Though he initially accepted this gesture, Turkish Cypriot leader Talat ended up cancelling the proposed meeting. Mr. Speaker, the United States, and this Congress, should demonstrate its commitment and support for the July 8 Agreement as a way toward ending the Turkish-Cypriot divide on the Island of Cyprus. I have introduced legislation, H. Res. 405, which expresses strong support for the implementation of the July 8 Agreement. I urge all of my colleagues to act and help this body put our own stamp of support on the July 8 process by supporting this resolution. Cyprus has long been a strong and faithful ally of the United States. It continues to work with us in the Global War on Terrorism and has supported our efforts in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Aside from providing overflight rights and port access, the government of Cyprus has joined only a handful of nations who have acted on their commitment to cancel Iraq's outstanding debt. Mr. Speaker, 33 years is long enough. It is not impossible to conceive one-day having a Cyprus that is unified under bizonal, bi- communal federation with a single sovereignty, single international personality and single citizenship with respect for human rights. and fundamental freedoms for all Cypriots. America, a friend of the Cypriot people, owes it to them to do everything in their power to support peace and an end to this illegal occupation.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor PFC Jonathan Michael Rossi, who was killed on July 1, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Jonathan was part of the B Company, 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division stationed in Fort Bliss, Texas, and was killed when his patrol encountered an insurgent attack involving an improvised explosive device and small-arms fire. I did not have the privilege of knowing Private Rossi personally, but by all accounts he was a courageous young man who was devoted to serving his country and family. Jonathan grew up in Safety Harbor, Florida. Following his longtime dream and strong sense of duty to country, he joined the Army only two months after graduating from Countryside High School in 2005. Jonathan was reserved young man who had spent much of his youth with the goal of service his country. Having lost his mother at a young age to cancer, he demonstrated a sense of courage and strength, which he brought to the battlefield. During his short time as an Army infantryman, Jonathan earned a great deal of recognition for his service. Among his many awards and honors are a Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantrymen Badge, Parachutist Badge, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon. Madam Speaker, my heart aches for Jonathan's family. He leaves behind his father, Michael, who also faithfully served his country for 20 years, and seven siblings and step-siblings. May God bless the Rossi family and continue to watch over the country that Private Rossi so loved. We shall never forget him.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, in closing, there was nothing hesitant about Prime Minister Blair's resolve to fight back and send a message to terrorists that the United Kingdom, like the United States, would not succumb to ideology that espouses violence and death. Like Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher before him, who stood shoulder to shoulder with President Ronald Reagan to bring down the greatest dark force of the 20th century, communist, Mr. Blair stood with President Bush even when few others would accept the challenge to eliminate the dark force of this new century. Mr. Speaker, as all the previous speakers have suggested, this is most worthy resolution for a most worthy leader. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in congratulating Prime Minister Tony Blair for his remarkable tenure as Prime Minister of the U.K., and for his steadfast support of the United States, and our invaluable alliance with Great Britain. We look forward to his successor, Mr. Gordon Brown, following in Mr. Blair's footsteps by maintaining and building on our transatlantic alliance so we can stand strong and together face the uncertainties of a troubled world. I would like to thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank Ranking Member King for bringing forth this resolution. And also Ambassador Watson, I thank you very much. Tony Blair is a true statesman, a man of principle. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. First I would like to thank our distinguished colleague, Mr. Peter King from New York, for sponsoring this bill. He is the ranking member of the Homeland Security Committee, as you know. I rise today in support of this resolution honoring the service of a true friend of the United States, Prime Minister Tony Blair. Throughout his long career in office, more than a decade in total, Prime Minister Blair has been a strong champion of the trans-Atlantic alliance between the United States and Britain and the United States and the other states of Europe. The U.S.-British relationship has indeed been made stronger due to Tony Blair, building an Anglo American alliance that has faced some of the darkest threats in the history of humankind. Our relations with all of Europe have benefited because of Tony Blair. Just as Sir Winston Churchill inspired Americans in his time, the American people will never forget Blair's solidarity with the United States in visiting Ground Zero just days after the September 11 terrorist attacks that killed so many of our citizens. We recall that he sat in our House gallery just a few days later when President Bush addressed a joint session of Congress concerning the tragic results of that terrorist attack. Prime Minister Blair has backed up his words with real commitment in the struggle against extremism that may well determine the future of our modern civilization, a civilization that has been built on the principles of rational thought and the liberty of men and women rather than on extremism. Indeed, British troops today stand beside our troops in the major conflicts of the struggle. Moreover, British law enforcement works in close cooperation with American law enforcement agencies, cooperation that has produced important results, as we saw in the successful prevention of terrorist plots, including the planned attack on U.S.- bound passenger jets in 2006. Mr. Speaker, on a separate issue of great importance to many Americans, we recognize that in responding to the strife of Northern Ireland with the Good Friday agreement, Prime Minister Blair's contribution was nothing short of remarkable. He and Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern inherited a divisive, violent conflict that has continued for half a century and that has, unfortunately, taken over 3,000 lives. Many had tried earlier to resolve the conflict in Northern Ireland, but none achieved the extent of progress that Prime Minister Blair has during his time in office. Rather than resigning himself to the status quo of senseless violence, Prime Minister Blair chose to commit himself fully to this endeavor, collaborating with his Irish counterparts and working towards achieving real progress toward peace in Northern Ireland. Mr. Speaker, let us take this opportunity to reflect on Tony Blair's accomplishments and to reaffirm our gratitude. I ask my colleagues to voice their support for this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to yield as much time as he may consume to the distinguished gentleman from New York, Peter King, the sponsor of this bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote Nos. 252, 414, and 454. I take my voting responsibility seriously, and if I had been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on each.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I'd like to wish a happy birthday to my son, Michael, who was born on June 7, 1993. He's 14 years old today. What a wonderful boy he is. I'm so proud of him; great student, all around great person, great athlete as well. He takes after my father, Congressman Mike Bilirakis, who he was named after. Mr. Speaker, it is with great frustration and disappointment that I rise today. It has been 3 years since the devastating 2004 hurricane season that ravaged my State, which forced homeowners insurance rates to skyrocket to unmanageable levels. And this body, unfortunately, has not acted. Along with many of our gulf coast colleagues, I have pleaded with the Democrat leadership to act on legislation which might ease this financially crippling crisis. Of course, this body has not acted. Countless of my constituents have implored me to help relieve this crisis so they do not have to leave the areas they love. They wish to raise their children and retire in the great State of Florida, but they fear that simply it will not happen because they can't afford it. We must act, Mr. Speaker. The front page of today's Wall Street Journal forewarns of the impending economic emergency if we have another major hurricane here in the United States. The story correctly notes, and I quote, ``If insurers of last resort face major storm losses, those costs could spread to a broad cross section of the public.'' This is just another warning given to this Congress that something must be done immediately. We must act. Mr. Speaker, I will submit the entire article for the Record. One of the areas most affected by this crisis is Pasco County in Florida, my district. Last month, the County Commissioners passed a resolution calling for Congress to take action. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the entire resolution for the Record. Mr. Speaker, the following are excerpts from the Pasco resolution, and I quote. ``Whereas, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the Southern Governors Association, the Florida Legislature, as well as other State legislatures across the country,'' this is not just a Florida problem, as you know, Mr. Speaker, they ``passed resolutions recognizing the importance of developing additional insurance capacity to ensure the viability of coverage for catastrophic natural perils by endorsing the concept of a national disaster plan; and ``Whereas, Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma caused over $200 billion in total economic losses, including insured and uninsured losses; and ``Whereas, the United States Federal Government has provided and will continue to provide billions of dollars and resources to help our Nation recover from catastrophes, and ``Whereas, multiple proposals have been introduced in the United States Congress over the past decade to address catastrophic risk insurance, including the creation of a national catastrophic reinsurance fund, ``Therefore, be it resolved by the Board of County Commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, it supports the adoption of legislation by the United States Congress to create a reasonably priced national reinsurance program that will help Americans find private insurance protection from natural catastrophes for their homes while reducing the demand on governmental resources,'' that's key, ``to assist victims after an event occurs.'' This is a bipartisan issue, Mr. Speaker. I know you agree. Mr. Speaker, along with cosponsoring legislation to establish a national catastrophic fund, I introduced legislation to provide tax incentives for Americans to strengthen their property. Enactment of my bill, H.R. 913, will reduce homeowners insurance rates and could help save lives. I implore this body to act on these and other insurance-related bills to help Americans who are in need. I pray that it doesn't take another Katrina-type catastrophic event before the body heeds my request. Let's go to work.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my profound concern with the continued violations of religious and human rights that the Republic of Turkey has perpetrated against the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Holy See for over 300 million Orthodox faithful. While I understand and appreciate the role Turkey must fulfill as a strategic ally in our global war on terror, I am immensely disappointed in the demonstrated lack of progress Turkey has made in support of religious tolerance. As cochair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Affairs and as a member of the House committees on Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security, I am extremely sensitive to nurturing the growing relationship between the United States and Turkey. The key factors in this relationship are ensuring Turkey's growth as a secular, constitutional democracy. Americans know the conditions that characterize secular democracies must, by necessity, include provisions for freedom of religion. While Turkey has made strides in other areas of modernization, it still fails to meet the standards of a civilized world in granting its citizens religious freedom. We seek no extraordinary demands on Turkey, simply to allow its citizens and institutions to be free of harassment based on religion. It's as simple as that. Like his predecessors before him, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, worldwide leader of Orthodox Christians, has made extraordinary efforts to bridge the gap between Christianity and Islam. The Patriarch, whom the Orthodox Church considers the first among equals, has been an ambassador of goodwill for the Ecumenical Patriarchate. In fact, the Ecumenical Patriarch has been proactive in assisting Turkey's cause on the world stage. His excellency, Bartholomew, has stated that Turkey's admission into the European Union would `` . . . provide a concrete example and a powerful symbol of mutually beneficial cooperation between the Western and Islamic worlds and put an end to the talk of the death of civilizations. ``This in turn would be a true strengthening of Europe and the European ideals that converge with the values of the `pilgrims of the book' spoken by the current Prime Minister of Turkey.'' The Ecumenical Patriarchate has a record of reaching out and working for peace and reconciliation amongst all faiths and has fostered dialogue among Christians, Jews and Muslims. What the Greek Orthodox community and all watchdogs of religious freedom throughout the world are asking for in return is simply that Turkey abides by the tenets of its constitution, which secures religious rights for all of its citizens. In accordance with the administration's ambitious agenda over the next 2 years to further develop a U.S.-Turkey strategic relationship, I urge my fellow Members to support House Resolution 373, of which I am an original cosponsor, so that we may impress upon Turkey the need to grant the Ecumenical Patriarchate ecclesiastic succession; the right to train clergy of all nationalities; and respect for human rights and property rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. By encouraging Turkey to continue the achievements that democratization has yielded thus far for its society, we will be working to promote and safeguard religious human rights for the Ecumenical Patriarchate. For this, we and nearly 300 million Orthodox Christians would be eternally grateful.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Melancon) and the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mario Diaz-Balart) for sponsoring this resolution, which I strongly support. It is a very important resolution. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Hurricane Preparedness Week. As we approach what is expected to be yet another very active hurricane season, it is imperative that we help raise awareness on the importance of being the best prepared for the worst-case scenario. How can any of us ever forget the horrific scenes etched into our minds after witnessing the devastation caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita? Nearly 2 years later, the gulf coast region and those affected by these storms are still suffering. I was alarmed when FEMA Director David Paulison testified before the Homeland Security Committee last week and informed us that FEMA's revised national response plan will not be completed until sometime in June. Given that we have already had a named storm before the official beginning of hurricane season, I hope FEMA is working expeditiously to get this plan finalized. Mr. Speaker, we all agree that the response of the State, local and Federal Governments were inadequate, and there is much work to be done. However, disaster readiness should not solely lie on the shoulders of government. I hope that individuals will use this week as a reminder that they, too, must prepare themselves, as Mr. Diaz-Balart said. I have urged my constituents to develop family disaster plans and create supply kits. It is also important that they follow local weather forecasts and heed any emergency hurricane warnings they receive. These and other simple steps can help save lives. Mr. Speaker, while I'm pleased that we are here today to debate this vitally important issue, I also must express some frustration. Most of our States are plagued with some form of natural disaster. In my State, these menaces have caused the most financially crippling crisis we have been confronted with in years, namely, the unaffordable costs of homeowners' insurance. Due to the onslaught of hurricanes and tornados in recent years, these rates have doubled or even tripled. This has caused many of my constituents throughout Florida, of course, to leave their homes or risk everything by opting not to get coverage. While there are no overnight solutions to help solve this crisis, I believe that this body can take steps to help encourage citizens in disaster-prone areas to better mitigate their property from their storms. I have introduced H.R. 913, the Hurricane Tornado and Mitigation Investment Act, which would accomplish that goal. I'm proud my good friend from Florida is an original cosponsor. Mr. Speaker, some Members have raised concerns that this is only a Florida or a coastal State issue. However, I will conclude my remarks with this statistic. For every dollar spent by FEMA for mitigating disasters, about $4 is saved on what would have eventually been spent fixing damage from a storm. That's significant. Taxpayers from every State have contributed billions of dollars spent recovering from the aftermaths of hurricanes such as Katrina and Rita. Encouraging our citizens to safeguard their property will save Americans in every State billions of dollars. Furthermore, it would reduce the skyrocketing costs of homeowners' insurance and allow my constituents and constituents all over the country, your constituents, Mr. Speaker, to raise their children in the State that they want to and retire in the State that they want to retire. I'm seeing some big problems in my State, Mr. Speaker. As I said, people are leaving the State, and it's a real shame. It's a real shame. They can't afford the homeowners' insurance. I encourage my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 913 and pray that this hurricane season is not as active as predicted.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael D. Thomas, who was killed on April 27, 2007 in Hirat Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Michael was a sniper, a weapons sergeant and a combat medic assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, NC, and was killed when his unit came under rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire. I did not have the privilege of knowing Staff Sergeant Thomas personally but by all accounts he was a dedicated family man who was devoted to serving his country. He grew up in Seffner, FL, and joined the military police in 1991, serving in Somalia and in Korea. After already having served in the military police for 13 years and with only 3\1/2\ years until he could retire, he volunteered to be a Green Beret. At 34, Michael was one of the oldest in his unit, which earned him the nickname ``Gramps.'' Michael was a highly decorated soldier. His awards and commendations include the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Defense Medal, the Parachutist Badge and the Special Forces Tab. Michael was an avid Tampa Bay Buccaneer fan who visited the team's training camp whenever he could. I've been told that he decorated his Fort Bragg room with Buccaneer memorabilia, including signed footballs and helmets. He was also an accomplished guitarist who liked watching movies and going for long walks with his wife, Teresa. Madam Speaker, my heart aches for Michael's family. He leaves behind his wife, Teresa, his children, Diana and Craig, his sisters, Krista and Cassie, his brother, Jaye, his granddaughter, Alexis, and his parents, Debbie and Robert Kirkpatrick. May God bless the Thomas family and continue to watch over the country that Staff Sergeant Thomas so loved. We shall never forget him.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a very brave and ambitious young man from my district, Pat Pedraja. Pat, who is 12 years old, was diagnosed with leukemia in March of 2006. Like many inflicted with this disease, Pat may need a bone marrow transplant to save his life. Unfortunately, there is currently a shortage of donors. When Pat discovered this shortage, he decided to do something about it. He and his family organized ``Driving for Donors'' to help add 5,000 new donors to the National Marrow Registry Program this year. They began traveling the country last month in a ``Donormobile,'' working to host successful donor drives in over 30 major cities. Tomorrow they will be in Washington. I encourage my colleagues to take the time out of your busy schedules to help save a life. It only takes a small donation of saliva, taken by a cheek swab, and completion of a donor consent form. Please contact my office for additional details.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unavoidably detained and missed rollcall vote No. 281. I take my voting responsibility very seriously, and if I had been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 281.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Chair, I rise in support of the Castor amendment to H.R. 1684. This amendment directs the Department of Homeland Security to work with my State of Florida to resolve differences between its ports access control credential and its Federal counterpart, the Transportation Worker Identification Credential, or the TWIC card. Florida has been a national leader in developing its own credential, entering into an agreement with TSA in 2003 to implement this TWIC prototype. Florida's card is largely interchangeable with the TWIC. However, there are questions about the ability to integrate Federal requirements with Florida's standards. I cannot stress enough the importance of resolving this issue so that maritime workers in my State do not have to obtain multiple cards and separate card readers for the same purposes. I met with TWIC program officials on this matter and, during a hearing of my Transportation Security and Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee last month, asked them to delay implementation of the TWIC card in Florida until this issue can be satisfactorily resolved. Although I am optimistic that we are moving in the right direction toward a resolution on this matter, I commend the gentlewoman from Florida for offering this amendment which will reinforce our State's bipartisan resolve to fix this problem. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 1684, the Fiscal Year 2008 Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act, a good bill which could be much better. I say that because the manager's amendment, if adopted, would strip out many bipartisan provisions that would have helped prevent terrorism and strengthen immigration enforcement, including one that I authored. H.R. 1684 currently includes an amendment I sponsored that was adopted during the committee's consideration of this bill which would improve maritime immigration enforcement. As a representative from Florida, I know how critically important it is to secure our maritime borders, as do many of our coastal colleagues. Coast Guard RADM David Pekoske testified before our Border, Maritime, and Global Counterterrorism Subcommittee in February about the challenges of coastal security. During his testimony, he highlighted an ongoing partnership with US-VISIT to deploy mobile biometrics collection equipment on Coast Guard cutters operating in the Mona Pass between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, where almost half of our maritime migrant apprehensions take place. I was intrigued by the possibility of this effort and the promise it may hold for strengthening our maritime defenses. My amendment, which the manager's amendment removes from this bill, would expand this effort into a formal pilot program and require DHS to evaluate the results to determine the feasibility and appropriateness of expanding such capability to all DHS maritime vessels. This capability is critically important since we currently do not have the ability to verify the identity of apprehended migrants, previous immigration violators, criminals, and possible terrorists in the maritime environment. This deficiency allows those who seek to break our Nation's immigration laws and those who may wish to commit terrorist acts to remain undetected and be repatriated without consequence so that they are free to continue their illegal and dangerous behavior. The biometric identification of interdicted aliens in the maritime environment has the potential to greatly improve the security of America's coastal borders. Unfortunately, since the majority has decided to remove this provision from this bill, we will not realize that promise. I am extremely disappointed and frustrated at this process. Many of the provisions that the manager's amendment strips from this bill were supported by every member of the Homeland Security Committee, including our chairman, whom I greatly admire and respect. However, I cannot understand why we would allow those who do not serve on our committee to dictate to us how we should or should not do our jobs. We simply should not put political expediency above homeland security. Mr. Chairman, I believe that this bill represents a missed opportunity to enhance our country's immigration enforcement, help stop terrorism, and improve our ability to respond should the unthinkable happen again. Though I plan to support its final passage here, I implore my friends on the other side of the aisle to work with us to move forward on the many bipartisan provisions which would have made this bill much better.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, under current law, military pay rates must be reasonably comparable to those in the private sector with similar skills, education, and experience. Unfortunately, due to budgetary constraints over the years, the military pay increase has not always met this criteria and a ``pay gap'' was created. This gap is not only unfair to our brave men and women in uniform. It also has raised retention and readiness concerns. For this reason, I have introduced H.R. 2027, the Military Pay Improvement Act, which would give them a minimum 3.5 percent pay raise. Our Nation's brave men and women in uniform have fought gallantly to ensure the continued safety, security, and prosperity of this great Nation. I believe it is unacceptable that we task these men and women with extraordinary responsibilities especially, during wartime, and cannot compensate them accordingly. The debt we owe them for their sacrifices can never be repaid. However, my bill will take a small step in the right direction to show our appreciation for their valor. I urge all my colleagues to cosponsor the bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, it is with great Gator pride that I rise today to support this resolution honoring my alma mater, the University of Florida, on winning the 2007 NCAA men's basketball championship. The Gators began this season looking to become the first team since 1992 to repeat as national champions. Everyone in the Gator nation anxiously anticipated this season's tip-off, as all five starters unselfishly returned to school in hopes of making history. And they did. They became the only team in history to repeat as champions with the same starting lineup. Last year, this Gator team came from obscurity to win the championship. However, this year the Gators were expected to win, which made them a target for every school they played. These young men not only handled the pressure and scrutiny, but they used it to fuel another amazing title run through both the SEC and the NCAA tournament. Madam Speaker, I believe that this basketball team represents the true embodiment of sportsmanship and teamwork. For the last 2 years, these young men won with class, not selfishness. The five starters gave up their very lucrative NBA contracts to return to the school they loved. How refreshing. In today's society, this an act that is remarkable. Believe it or not, it is remarkable. I want to commend all of them for their hard work and discipline. I also want to recognize Coach Billy Donovan and all of his assistants for the tremendous job they have done over the years. We are very lucky to have them, and I am glad he stayed at the University of Florida. Finally, I want to thank president Bernie Machen and athletic director Jeremy Foley, whose leadership made it possible for the Gators to be the only team in NCAA history to hold both the football and basketball titles simultaneously. I wish the University of Florida the best of luck in continuing this remarkable trend. And on behalf of my entire family, including my sons Michael, Teddy, Manuel, and Nicholas, thanks for making our dream come true, Gators. Madam Speaker, it truly is great to be a Florida Gator.