Joe Crowley

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this conference report. I want to commend Chairman Kolbe and our ranking member, Congresswoman Lowey, for crafting a fair and comprehensive bill that addresses the needs of many nations throughout the world. As conflict continues around the globe, from Northern Ireland to the Middle East, this bill has taken the appropriate steps to provide the tools for future prosperity and the potential for reconciliation. As the cycle of violence continues in the Middle East, it is essential that we take the appropriate steps to facilitate an atmosphere of peace. The Middle East package in this appropriations bill takes great strides toward that end by including balanced funding for Israel and Egypt, as well as essential support for Jordan and Lebanon. Specifically, this bill provides economic funding in the amount of $720 million for Israel and $655 million for Egypt. Additionally, it provides $2.04 billion in military financing for Israel and $1.3 billion for Egypt. I would like to make a special note to commend Israel for being the only country to voluntary request a reduction in its economic assistance. It is my sincere hope that this funding will foster an atmosphere for reconciliation that is so desperate needed. I would also like to thank the Committee for recognizing the work of the Galilee Society. The Galilee Society works with Israeli-Arabs and Israeli-Jews on projects that are in the mutual interest of both communities. From water purification to child immunizations, Galilee has looked beyond the religious and cultural differences that are often divisive in this part of the world, for the betterment of the society as a whole. Furthermore, the funding provided for the International Fund for Ireland in the amount of $25 million is a crucial element in facilitating an environment in Northern Ireland in which all sides can live together and prosper for the common good. With the peace process on tenuous ground, programs such as the International Fund for Ireland are essential for Irish youth from the North and from the Republic to work together to improve the future of their respective homelands. On behalf of the Congressional Caucus on Bangladesh and the South Asian Community in New York's Seventh Congressional District, I would like to express our gratitude for $23.5 million for International Disaster Assistance. Specifically, the $5 million earmark for relief efforts in South Asia. The South Asian region has been decimated by earthquakes and flooding throughout this difficult year. The funding included in this bill will make great progress toward rebuilding the communities hardest hit by these tragic events. I wish to thank the Committee for the funding provided for the United Nations Population Fund. This important funding will save the lives of thousands of women and children throughout the developing world. Though I am pleased overall with the funding levels included in this bill, I have many concerns regarding the Andean Initiative. Despite the fact that this funding is a vast improvement over Plan Colombia, I believe that it fails to address the needs of countries, such as Ecuador, to effectively combat the spillover effect from the drug war in Colombia. Furthermore, this initiative continues to provide financial and military assistance to the Colombian military. With an abysmal human rights record, the Colombian military should receive no support from the United States. It is my hope that these funding deficiencies will be addressed and rectified in future foreign aid packages. I congratulate Mr. Kolbe and Mrs. Lowey for their diligent work on this conference report, and I urge my colleagues to support its passage.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H.R. 3061, the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. And would like to thank Chairman Regula and Ranking Member Obey as well as all members of the Subcommittee, especially Representative Steny Hoyer, Rosa DeLauro, and Nita Lowey for all of their work and dedication in crafting a bipartisan piece of legislation that funds our Nation's education, health infrastructure and labor programs. This bill provides $48 billion for education programs--an increase of almost $7 billion over last year. Of this total, $6.54 billion is allocated for the Head Start Program, which represents a $338 million increase over last year's budget. This new funding will guarantee that we can avert a threatened reduction in current enrollment of as many as 2,500 children. This Head Start funding will benefit many Head Start Centers in New York, including the Little Angels Head Start Program in the Bronx. Additionally, this bill increases the ceiling for Pell Grants bringing the maximum award to $4000--the highest maximum grant in the program's history. This will mean more deserving students will have a chance to attend college and achieve the American dream. The bill provides new resources for mentoring, training, salary enhancement, and other improvements that will support teachers by giving them the resources they need to do their job. With respect to teacher training, I was very pleased to see the great work being done by City University of New York Chancellor Matthew Goldstein, and the President of LaGuardia Community College, Gail Mellow acknowledged with a $600,000 grant for their Teacher Empowerment Zone Program at this great institution. This bill also allocates $200 million more than what the President requested for bilingual education. These funds will provide instructional support and teacher training to assist the approximately 3.6 million students who have difficulty speaking English. Mr. Speaker, this is wonderful news for my district, home to students who speak over 70 languages. H.R. 3061 provides the money needed to carry out the sweeping educational reforms outlined in the Leave No Child Behind Act--a bill that ensures teachers, students and parents have the resources to hold themselves to the highest educational standards. Locally, this translates into $636 million this year for New York City Public Schools, a 28% increase from last year; and $141 million in Title I funding, a 20% increase over last year. With the New York City Board of Education threatening a 15% across the board cut in important education programs, this increased Federal funding is more important than ever. This bill will mean a lot to New York City and particularly the children back in Queens and the Bronx. In addition, H.R. 3061 includes significant increases for medical research and health programs. I am particularly pleased at the inclusion of $23.3 billion towards the National Institutes of Health-- an increase of $3 billion over last year's funding levels, and a $430 million increase for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC has a long history of doing exemplary work, particularly in disease prevention. Specifically, the CDC has led the charge in combating the West Nile Virus, a potentially deadly virus that was first discovered in North America in my district of Queens, New York. The programs at both the CDC and the NIH are not only a good investment in our communities, but they are vital to combating bioterrorism as our nation confronts new threats and challenges. Furthermore, this bill also allocates $1.91 billion for the Ryan White AIDS program, which is a $103 million increase from last year, with specific increases for minority HIV/AIDS initiatives. With minority rates of HIV/AIDS infection increasing, this funding is both timely and desperately needed. In my district, Steinway Child and Family Services of Queens has done an outstanding job in providing HIV/ AIDS education and prevention services programs, including an innovative program of teen mentoring in the schools. We must combat the scourge of AIDS, and this bill provides a down payment in this war. For our displaced and unemployed Americans, this Labor-HHS-Education Conference Report includes $1.55 billion for dislocated workers employment and training, an increase of almost 10% over last year. For my home State of New York, this will mean a tremendous amount as we strive to recover from the events of September 11th. Stating that, I was disheartened to see the school construction and modernization that I have championed stripped from this bill, just as I was disappointed that a meaningful compromise was not reached to achieve mental health parity for insurance. Nevertheless applaud the hard work of the House and Senate conferees in bringing this important spending bill to the floor today and I proudly support this measure.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, on this three-month anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States, I rise to honor James Marcel Cartier, a constituent of mine whose body still lies in the rubble. James' story is one of thousands. The second youngest child of seven in a close-knit Jackson Heights family, James was deeply loved by those who knew him. Soft-spoken, with a sunny disposition, he was quick to show affection, particularly towards his mother Carmen, who he adored. A devoted son, not a day passed when he did not visit his parents and inquire about their health, or run errands on their behalf. A die-hard New York Knicks fan, his younger brother, Michael remembers his great laugh, big dimples, and giant smile. Two years apart in age, James and Michael were inseparable. They served as alter boys together, worked side by side in a neighborhood pizzeria together, and slept in the same room in their parents' basement until two years ago, when they moved out with a friend into a three-bedroom apartment in Astoria, Queens. ``The first night there, we had trouble sleeping, because we weren't next to each other,'' said his brother. ``And even after we moved out, he still went home all the time to have dinner with my parents.'' James was devoted to his nephews, Best Man at Michael's wedding, a phone call away from any family member or friend that needed him, James was as generous as he was kind. Mr. Speaker, on September 11th, 2001 this exemplary and sweet young man was working as an apprentice electrician in Local Union 3 at the AON Corporation on the 92nd floor of Tower Two. He had been on the job for two weeks. Despite the grave danger he was in, when news of the explosion first reached him, his first thoughts were of his sister Michele, who was in World Trade Center Tower 1. James immediately called his brother John to tell him something had happened to Tower 1 and to come right away to find their sister. John and James agreed to meet on the street, but while John found Michele amidst thousands of petrified survivors, James was never to be seen by his family again. James Cartier managed to speak four times with his siblings before the towers collapsed. Finally at 9:15, he spoke to his sister Marie from the 105th floor for the last time. ``I want you to tell Mom and Dad I love them more than anything. Make sure you let them know that James said he loved them.'' When he died his father told the local papers that ``all heaven stood silent, as this beautiful young man was destroyed.'' His body along with thousands of others has yet to be found in the devastation that the terrorists wrought on my city that fateful day. A memorial service honored his life, while the ashes of the victims hung heavy over New York for weeks as the sky stayed dark with grief. Mr. Cartier is survived by his mother Carmen, his father Patrick Cartier, his sisters Jenny Farrell, Marie Cartier, Michele Cartier- Granieri, and his brothers John, Michael, and Patrick Cartier, Jr. Their sorrow is deep and their solace is knowledge that their son and brother now walks with the angels. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. James M. Cartier for his service to our country. He died doing his job as did so many that fateful day. May God Bless his family and his soul. Our Nation mourns his loss.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3295, The Help America Vote Act. I would like to thank the gentleman from Ohio, Mr. Ney and the gentleman from Maryland, Mr. Hoyer for their diligent work in getting this legislation to the floor quickly enough for it to make a difference in the upcoming 2002 elections. The Presidential election of 2000 highlighted the numerous problems within our federal election system. Voting machines broke down, thousands of votes were discarded due to damaged ballots over or under votes and hanging, dimpled and pregnant chads. The situation was especially grave in our minority communities, especially African- American neighborhoods. The United States election process broke down, as did the voter's confidence in it. We all came to this House just under a year ago, promising to immediately act to fix the many problems we discovered. Today we must take the opportunity to restore public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process. With the passage of this important legislation, we will finally demand minimum Federal standards for voter registration. H.R. 3295 would also mandate minimum standards on the equipment used to cast ballots, and the procedure used to determine what is and is not a vote on every variety of voting machine used in this country. This will eliminate confusing and contradictory local laws that made a mockery of the 2000 election's Florida recount. This will establish standards that every State must meet for every Federal election. Passage of this bill will also authorize $2.65 billion in funds to help meet these new high standards by replacing outdated voting equipment, and educate voters about the election process. Of this money, $400 million is to help States replace outdated and unreliable punch card voting systems, the antiquated system which led to the Florida turmoil, and another $2.25 billion is to help States improve their equipment, provide greater access to disabilities, better train poll workers, and educate voters about their rights. Although I support this bill as a good start towards desperately needed reform, I recognize that it does not solve all of our election difficulties. I am very disappointed that the Rules Committee did not make in order the amendment offered by my good friends Mr. Menendez of New Jersey, Ms. DeLauro of Connecticut, and Ms. Johnson of Texas. Their amendment would have solved many of the deficiencies contained in the bill, and make it more compatible with the bills currently being considered in the Senate. Their amendment would mandate that the voting authorities begin to inform voters of a mistake in their ballot of voting for either too few or too many candidates. Nearly 200,000 ballots were thrown out of the Florida Presidential ballot because of over or under counting, and the technology to prevent this from occurring again is available. We should be using it. The amendment would also require accessibility to alternative language voting for people with a limited grasp of English. This is a vital issue to me because the people in my congressional district, the Seventh District of New York, are native speakers of over 70 different languages. These hard working American citizens are just as entitled to vote as everyone else and should not be intimidated by the electoral process--something every citizen should hold dear. Beyond that, this amendment ensures that the standards of the motor- voter law remain in order, to ensure that States cannot purge people from their rolls if they fall to vote in two consecutive Federal elections. It requires provisional ballots to be provided to voters missing from precinct registers, and notice be provided as to whether their residency was established and their vote counted following Election Day. The amendment ensures that national standards are maintained for error rates for voting machines, in addition to the other standards already established. Although the Rules Committee did not make this amendment in order, I believe it is vitally important that these provisions be added to any bill that becomes law. Nonetheless, I continue to support H.R. 3295, which is a very good step in the right direction and support its passage today. But I hope that the Senate passes a bill containing all of these important provisions, and we are able to adopt it all in conference. This bipartisan legislation has the endorsement of the National Commission on Federal Election Reform and its distinguished chairmen, former Presidents Carter and Ford. The National Conference of State Legislators and the National Association of Secretaries of State, both of which will have to deal with its mandates, have also endorsed it. They all recognize that this bill is the best way to help rectify the problems of the 2000 election, and ensure that debacle never occurs again. I urge a ``yes'' vote on H.R. 3295. Thank you Mr. Speaker and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I too would like to express my support for H.R. 1. It gives appropriators the authority to allocate a 20 percent increase in federal education spending, over the 3 percent the President requested. It allows for the creation of a formula to target federal aid to where the greatest needs in bi-lingual education exist. It provides new resources for mentoring, training, salary enhancement, and other improvements. This bill provides a promising framework for raising standards and accountability for all students, and this bill will mean a great deal to New York City. It allocates approximately $636 million for FY2002 to New York City, a 28 percent increase from last year, and $141 million in Title I funding, a 20 percent increase. With New York City threatening massive across the board cuts, this increased Federal funding is more important than ever. And, while I am disappointed that this bill doesn't make federal spending on disabled students an entitlement program, and that it does not include desperately needed funding for the rebuilding and modernization of crumbling overcrowded schools in my district I nevertheless applaud the hard work of the House and Senate conferees in bringing this long overdue reform bill to the floor today. H.R. 1 gives students a chance, parents a choice, and America's schools the mandate to be the best in the world.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak out of order on Rollcall Nos. 483, 484, and 485, which occurred yesterday on December 11, 2001. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond my control I was unable to be here to vote on the following bills. I would like to take this opportunity to record for the record that I would have voted yes on: H.R. 10, the Railroad Retirement and Survivors' Improvement Act of 2001 which will provide benefits to railroad employees and their beneficiaries; H.R. 3282, honoring former Senator Mike Mansfield by designating a Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in his honor; and H. Con. Res 281, honoring the great sacrifice of Johnny Michael Spann, the first American killed in combat in the war against terrorism.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the Trade Promotion Authority bill offered by Chairman Thomas. My problem here is not with the concept of giving the President trade promotion authority, my problem is with passing a TPA bill that fails to address basic labor and congressional oversight requirements. The labor provisions in this bill are a sham. This legislation calls only for the non-degradation of a potential trading partner's labor laws. Under this bill, Malaysian companies could continue to pay a ten year old child, five cents for a day's work. In this example, the Malaysian firm would only be in violation if it paid the same child four cents for a day's work. The Thomas labor requirements run counter to common sense. There is a reason that the International Labor Organization established the five core labor standards. The rights of association and collective bargaining, and bans on child labor, compulsory labor and discrimination are essential components to all trade agreements. We must insist that our trade partners respect and abide by these standards without exception. The notion of Congressional oversight has fallen short in this bill, as well. H.R. 3005 provides no effective mechanism for Congressional participation. It only includes an element of the 1988 law that was never implemented. Congress must have the authority to oversee these agreements on a periodic basis, and have the ability to present resolutions of disapproval should the need arise. The bottom line is that this bill is totally deficient on many levels. The Ranking Member, Mr. Rangel, had a substitute that would have met the requirements necessary to negotiate trade agreements in good faith. Unfortunately, the Republicans would not allow the Democratic bill to see the light of day. Let's pass a TPA bill that makes sense. This bill certainly does not. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I stand up to say, enough is enough. I rise in strong support of this resolution, and I am proud to be a cosponsor. I commend the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde), the chairman, and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos), our ranking member, for bringing this measure before us this afternoon. I was both saddened and infuriated by the events that transpired in Jerusalem and Haifa this past weekend. Saddened because 26 people were murdered and 175 were injured in a cowardly terrorist attack. Infuriated because Yasser Arafat and his Palestinian Authority have done nothing to prevent these attacks since the peace process began. Arresting low-level Hamas operatives to demonstrate that he is doing something is fooling absolutely no one. Arafat's declaration that he is cracking down on Palestinian terrorists is about as effective as the police inspector played by Claude Rains in Casablanca when he said, round up the usual suspects, while Humphrey Bogart got away. The revolving door policy at Palestinian jails must end immediately. After years of negotiating with Arafat and the Palestinian Authority to no avail, it may be time to ask if Arafat is truly a partner interested in peace. As the old adage goes, actions speak louder than words. Arafat's actions suggest that we have been wasting our time in dealing with him. Mr. Arafat, our patience has finally run out. You have no more bargaining chips left. President Bush issued a challenge to the world when he said, you are either with us or you are with the terrorists. Clearly, you have chosen. Following the events of September 11, Americans have experienced what the Israelis have been dealing with since 1948. The Israeli government was there for us on 9/11, and we need to be with the Israelis today. I urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. I thank the gentleman from Texas for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the good gentlewoman for placing into the record the fact that the Mayor of the city of New York and the Governor said we do not need the money right now. Maybe the gentlewoman can explain to us why it is, then, that the city of New York is cutting by 15 percent across the board, programs throughout New York City. It is an austerity budget. I do not have an answer for that, but maybe the gentlewoman does. The fact is we do not want to vote against this rule. We do not want to vote against the bill. But a promise that was made has been broken. We are not getting the full $20 billion funding to New York City that was promised early on. We know there are a lot of great things in this bill for our Nation. We know that our Nation is at war. We want to support and we will be supportive of our men and women overseas in the armed service. But the simple fact of the matter is that a promise was made to the city of New York and the State of New York and that promise is being broken right now. While our men and women are fighting in Central Asia to protect our quality of life and the sanctity of our country, they do so with the heavy memories of the martyrs of September 11. It is with a heavy heart that I ask my colleagues to oppose this rule, not to disrespect our Armed Forces, as has been said or at least been alluded to here today, but to respect the memory of those who lost their lives on September 11. We need to do the right thing by New York, New York State and New York City, who took the brunt of this hit on America. Why do we have to continue to bleed 15 percent across the board?

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me this time. I want to thank the entire New York delegation. I am proud to work with all my colleagues these past few weeks after the attack on New York on September 11, and never more proud than I am right now on this floor to stand behind the Sweeney-Lowey amendment. Let me thank my colleagues, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Walsh) and let me thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Young), the chairman, for their efforts. Let me especially thank the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Kelly), and my good friend the gentleman from New York (Mr. Sweeney) for standing with us on this amendment. A great deal has been said about the wound that was inflicted upon our great city, but sometimes, as someone who was personally affected by this, I find it easier to talk about it in metaphor. On September 11, a dagger was struck into the heart of the city of New York that has left a gaping wound for the last 2 months. That wound has not healed; has not even been bandaged. It is bleeding. New York City is still bleeding today and will continue to bleed. We have the best economic surgeons, the best economic doctors in the world. They know how to fix it. They know what medication the wound needs, but they are saying they just cannot get the right dosage. Mr. Chairman, that is what we are talking about here. We are asking for the money that was promised to the city. That is all. Where we find ourselves now is that we are relegated to glorified begging. We, the delegation of New York, after having sustained the blow on September 11, after sustaining the loss of the Twin Towers, after having sustained the loss of thousands of individuals with lives and talents, everything that goes into making an individual a person, thousands have been lost. On top of that, we are told that we are not going to get the full funding that we were told we would get in the spirit of unity just 2 months ago. We have to go back to our constituents and say, I know we were told we were going to get that money, we will not get it yet and we will have to wait 4 or 5 months down the road, and hopefully then we will be successful and get this money for New York. I do not know how Members of Congress can vote against this amendment and go back and the next time there is a disaster in their area and react to their constituents when they say, Where is the money?

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this important resolution expressing the feelings of this body regarding the crash of American Airlines Flight 587. I commend my colleague from New York, Mr. Weiner, for sponsoring such an appropriate measure in the immediate aftermath of this tragic event. The resolution speaks for itself, but I would like to speak on behalf of those in the 7th District who have been hurt, in very different ways, by this tragedy. First, I would like to express my condolences to the families and friends of those who died. There are many in my District, including myself, who have personal links with the area that has been hit. My mother grew up in the Rockaways just blocks from the crash site, and my aunt still lives there today. There are many others with similar ties to this neighborhood. We all hope that the community there will come together and recover both swiftly and strongly. The events of September 11th, have really hit this wonderful community hard. It is going to take even more courage and strength for this neighborhood to rebuild. Second, I would like to pay tribute to the many individuals who selflessly and instinctively threw themselves into the rescue efforts. There acts were a noble reminder of the heroism displayed only weeks before, during the terrorist attacks of the World Trade Center, which touched the hearts of us all. The emergency services once again lived up to their outstanding reputation and performed with dedicated professionalism. Once again, several volunteers disregarded their personal safety and helped any way they could. Twice now in two months tragedy has hit our city from the air; twice also has the brave endeavor of our people risen to meet that challenge. Finally, I would like to express my empathy with the loss that has been borne by the Dominican people both in the Dominican Republic and in New York. This is a grievous blow to the community, much of it residing in the 7th District, which is home to many Dominicans by either birth or descent. In particular, it is a personal tragedy for many individuals and families. We can only have hope in the natural resilience and camaraderie of the Dominican community to support all concerned in this bleak hour. We here in Congress do express our sympathy and admiration for all that has happened. But we must also once again strive to ensure that all was not in vain and lessons shall be learned from this catastrophe.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, over the last 2 months we have seen reports of knives, guns, mace, and stun guns slip past keystone cop security guards at our Nation's airports, and still the GOP defends the third- rate rent-a-cops at our airports. Two days ago, one of the airport screeners at Logan Airport in Boston who was tasked with protecting the traveling public left her checkpoint unattended for 4 minutes while passengers gained unfettered access to the gate area. There have been over 90 breaches of security since September 11. In the words of our colleague from Ohio, ``Beam us all up. Have we totally lost it? Have we learned nothing from the events of September 11?'' I find it incredible that negotiation for this bill have dragged on this long. There is no compromise when it comes to the security of our aviation system. The status quo has failed us, and continues to fail us every day. We must do away with private security firms at these checkpoints and implement the federalization of our airport security apparatus immediately. This country has suffered enough, and we have an obligation to protect each and every one of our citizens. We must do that today.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the gentlelady's motion. Last year Mrs. Lowey and I, working with Chairman Callahan, Mr. Walsh and Speaker Hastert were successful in obtaining an appropriation of $25 million for the International Fund for Ireland. Funding for this project has never been as integral to the viability of a lasting peace in Northern Ireland, as it is right now. Since the creation of the Northern Ireland Assembly, the practice of crisis politics has been the norm, more often than the exception. In recent days, however, the Nationalists and the Unionists have finally arrived at a point that will allow them to move forward. I commend the IRA for their historic announcement of disarmament. I would also like to express my support for the election of Mark Durkan as Deputy First Minister, and the reelection of David Trimble as First Minister. After several difficult days, I am pleased to see that the parties have resolved the latest impasse and returned to the bargaining table. Despite the tremendous strides that have been made by both sides in Northern Ireland, it is difficult to celebrate these achievements while people are still being murdered in the streets of Belfast. When Ulster political leaders disagree, they debate, vote, and sometimes walk away from the bargaining table. When Unionists and Nationalists on the ground disagree, people die. The International Fund for Ireland promotes contact, cooperation and reconciliation between Unionists and Nationalists in Northern Ireland. By working together on issues of mutual concern such as building a strong economy, and maintaining safe neighborhoods, the fund helps secure peace where it must begin. Through person to person contact. IFI is a crucial instrument in ending the cycle of hate and violence that has consumed Northern Ireland for far too long. Therefore, it is essential that the Committee continue to fund IFI in the amount of $25 million, and support the stronger language passed in the House version of this bill. The future of the children of Northern Ireland hangs in the balance. We cannot let them down. I urge my colleagues to support this motion.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the motion to instruct conferees. Mr. Speaker, I am appalled. It has been 7 weeks since the tragic events of September 11, and we have yet to make any concrete progress in the House to instill the confidence in our aviation system that American travelers require and deserve. While we stand here in this Chamber bickering over agency jurisdiction, the need to federalize and funding concerns, our aviation security apparatus continues to be breached at will. On September 11, 19 hijackers boarded American airliners which led to the murder of thousands of innocent Americans. What has the House done in response to improve aviation security? Absolutely nothing yet. Seven Dulles Airport employees failed a test initiated by airport security officials, allowing weapons through the heightened security checkpoint. How did we react? We did not do anything. Just a few days ago, a man clears the security checkpoints at O'Hare Airport with knives, mace and a stun gun; and once again, we have done nothing. Our unwillingness to move on this issue has put the safety of American people in extreme peril. It is clear the current system does not work. The bill we passed in the House last week does not call for Federal law enforcement personnel to be entrusted with aviation security. Only the Senate version does. The House bill simply calls for the oversight of private firms that have already proven themselves incapable of doing the job. It is time to face the facts. The underpaid, undermotivated, undervetted security personnel are not getting the job done. We found out the hard way that the status quo was totally inadequate. Fool us once, shame on them. Fool us twice, shame on us. The immediate Federal enforcement of the safety in our skies is required, and the Senate version of this bill accomplishes just that. We have dawdled long enough. Let us go to conference and pass legislation that achieves the goal which we all share: the safety and security of the flying public.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to state my support for the settlement reached between the Justice Department and Microsoft last Friday. This deal will bring to a close the long-standing anti-trust battle that has affected the entire computer technology industry. Though some wish the deal had gone further, I believe it strikes the necessary balance, respecting Microsoft's strength and success while maintaining healthy competition in the technology sector. I believe it is an important step to restoring our nation's dynamic economy. I agree with Microsoft's Chairman Bill Gates that the settlement is fair, reasonable, and the right thing for the software industry. Microsoft has long been an innovative leader. Microsoft stands as an example of the excellence of American enterprise. I respect Microsoft's role provided they leave the door open for the significant contribution and innovation of other firms. I admire Microsoft's commitment to the settlement and its ongoing commitment to improving its revolutionary software. I am confident that Microsoft will make the necessary changes to assuage and prove false its competitors who attack the company's cutting-edge productivity products as predatory. I am glad that both parties could come to an agreement that respects the important contributions Microsoft has made and will continue to make and that insures free competition, the hallmark of America's economy. I am sure everyone involved would have preferred for this arrangement to be reached earlier. Still, the settlement is an important step in closing Microsoft's legal battles and allowing them time to focus on improving the way America does business. Both Microsoft and the Justice Department made significant compromises during the course of the settlement; I am pleased with the efforts of both parties and look forward to the energy this settlement will undoubtedly bring to the technology sector. More than either party, consumers will benefit with Microsoft to focus fully on technological innovation, and with a more open market. Microsoft's settlement comes at a particularly advantageous time for New York and the rest of the country. America's premier software firm has much to offer the country through our current economic downturn. After substantial negotiations, the settlement has already strengthened the Stock Exchange and our economy. I am sure that Microsoft and her many competitors will be a crucial piece in leading our nation back to economic prosperity.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for the Senate version of the airline security bill. The plan presented by the majority is simply just flawed. It does nothing to ensure that screening routines in this country are uniform, where screening in La Guardia Airport in my district is the same as screening in Des Moines, Iowa, where the screening in LAX is the same as in Butte, Montana. That is what the Democratic substitute does and the majority bill simply does not. The Senate bill passed 100 to 0 with 49 members of the Republican Party supporting that bill. Can they all be wrong? We need to give the American people full faith and confidence in the airline industry. The majority bill simply does not do that. The Senate bipartisan bill begins to do just that.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this energy and water appropriations conference report. I want to begin by extending my sincere gratitude to the chairman, the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Callahan), for all of his work and for the ranking member, the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Visclosky), for his great work in drafting a solid bipartisan piece of legislation, a bill that will meet many of the needs pertaining to important energy and infrastructure needs throughout our entire Nation. Particularly, I want to thank both gentlemen for including in this bill $4.4 million for the cleanup of Flushing Bay and Creek in my congressional district. For those of you who may not be familiar where Flushing Bay is, when you land at LaGuardia Airport, between Shea Stadium and LaGuardia airport, that is Flushing Bay. It is a gaping wound within the estuary of the Long Island Sound. For many, many years it has been in need of cleanup. The funding that will be provided here will be used to dredge parts of this water body, to clean up old sediment and other debris built up in the bay and creek for many years. The pollution built up in Flushing Bay has resulted in foul odors and water discoloration, making this a blight on the Borough of Queens. But this investment by the committee in the cleanup effort, as well as other infrastructure investments in the area, surrounding this water body, will make this portion of Flushing Sound and Creek what I believe will be the pride of Queens County. There is a great deal of work that needs to be done. They are finishing the study stage, and we are grateful to the work of the Army Corps of Engineers; but we need to move beyond the study stage. We believe that will happen very soon, and a large portion of this $4.4 million will go towards actually dredging and cleaning up this bay, which is in desperate need of it, to bring it back to life for the people not only of my Borough of Queens County, but for all the city and all those people who visit our city on a daily basis and fly over Flushing Bay and wonder what that exactly is.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from New York, Mr. Sweeney, for leading this special order. I rise tonight to commemorate the life and career of Gerald B.H. Solomon. Gerry Solomon was well known as a tough-talking advocate for his Congressional district. But as a former Marine, he was perhaps the House's biggest advocate for veterans during his 20 years in Congress. As the ranking member on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, Solomon worked tirelessly on behalf of veterans and veterans' benefits, including beneficiary travel for veterans going to and from VA hospitals. Solomon was also successful in efforts to elevate the Veterans Administration to a cabinet-level department. This work won him wide praise from veterans groups. AMVETS National Commander Joseph W. Lipowski called Solomon ``one of our foremost advocates in Congress.'' In 1989, Solomon was presented with the AMVETS Silver Helmet Award. The award, which is a silver replica of the World War II GI helmet, has come to be known as the ``Veterans Oscar.'' It is fitting that Solomon was laid to rest with military honors in Saratoga National Cemetery. From his key position on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Solomon was the driving force behind the creation of the cemetery and helped secure $1.45 million to buy the land for the cemetery. Solomon loved the unique place in history held by Saratoga, as it was the turning point in the American Revolution. In addition to serving as ranking member of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Solomon was Chair of the powerful Rules Committee. As the first Republican Chairman in four decades, Solomon used this chairmanship to promote the interests of New York. Public service was clearly Solomon's life. Coming from a family full of firefighters and policemen, I would be remiss if I failed to note that Solomon also served for years as a volunteer firefighter in his home town of Glen Falls, New York. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Freda and their five children, six grandchildren, and his brother. Mr. Speaker, I again thank my colleague Mr. Sweeney for offering this special tribute, and ask if the House would please Join me in pausing to recognize the distinguished life of Gerald Solomon.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague from New York for yielding me this time. I introduced this legislation, the Medal of Valor for America's Heroes Act, with the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella) and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel) and well over 250 other Members of Congress as a way to thank those brave men and women and dedicated public safety officers who risked their lives and, in far too many cases, lost their lives to protect countless thousands of others, whether it be on September 11 or any of the other 364 days of the year. This bill will provide a Medal of Valor award, the highest national award for valor for a public safety officer, to the public safety officers who perished in the attacks of September 11 of this year, as well as allow other officers who served above and beyond the call of duty to also receive recognition. By honoring those who died, we also honor those who live on and embody the spirit of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the well-being of others. Over the coming years, we will hear tremendous stories of heroic measures. One such story I have heard already is that of Captain Patrick Brown of the 3 Truck on 13th Street in Manhattan. My cousin Michael, whose brother John was killed on that fateful day, works in 3 Truck on 13th Street and was a close friend to Pat and 11 of the members of that firefighter unit that were lost that day. He told me of a radio message that day from the 32nd floor of Tower One. Mike had told me that Pat and other members of 3 Truck were with about 40 injured people on their way down from the building. Pat Brown was one of the most decorated members of the FDNY and when he spoke, everyone listened. A few moments after giving his location in the tower, he radioed again, except this time it was a May Day call and that the walls of the building were buckling. This was a full 10 minutes before the building actually collapsed. It gave firefighters and unknown numbers of rescue workers and victims time to evacuate the building. Pat Brown and the other men of 3 Truck were in impeccable condition and could have easily gotten out of the building, but Pat Brown called back on his radio that he would be staying behind, that he and the other members from Truck 3 would be staying behind with the injured victims, knowing that they too would meet the same fate. If that is not heroism, I do not know what is. While these people do not want our accolades, we the survivors and mourners feel the need to extend to them not only our gratitude but also something larger that states that they are not forgotten. This is the first time that this award will be bestowed, and I am encouraging the Attorney General to use the remains of the World Trade Center as the metal for this award, the metallic structure that is now a debris on Staten Island, an award that is an official recognition of the heroic works of the people who do not view their work as heroic. It is a way to say thank you to those who do not believe they deserve thanks for doing their job, and it is a way for us to recognize the heroic actions, not only for those who died but those who still work on protecting all of us each day. It is a way that someone like myself, who was affected by the tragedy on so many levels, can say thank you to my cousin John Moran, who did what he considered was his job and what I consider an act of bravery. For far too long, many of us have taken our fire, police and emergency medical personnel for granted. This bill acts as a public thank you, both to those that perished and those that still work on to protect our civil society. But let us not all support this resolution and think we have done all we need to do for our public safety officers. We need to not only salute them and respect them every day, but we need to advocate for them as well. Congress needs to pass legislation to create a new Fire Corps to bring up to 75,000 new firefighters into our communities. And every community and our Federal Government needs to remember the heroism seen in Virginia, Pennsylvania and especially in New York City when calculating their budgets. We can no longer shortchange these people with respect to their livelihoods, with respect to their pay and benefits. My friend and colleague the gentleman from New York (Mr. Weiner) successfully led the charge to increase the Public Safety Officers Benefit. I salute him for that. And our New York delegation has worked to ensure that emergency medical personnel are covered under the PSOB program as well in this case. But they should be completely covered under this valuable program in all circumstances. The work of the police, fire and EMT professionals, and they are professionals, is not very glamorous but it is critical and should be celebrated. While everyone in our Nation hopes and prays that we never have a tragedy like the one of September 11 again, let us hope that we all learn from it. Let us hope that we never take these people for granted, the people who run into burning buildings when everyone else is running out; the people that chase after criminals rather than hide and get out of their way; the people that resuscitate and provide for our sick and dying rather than panic and overreact. And let this award serve as a beginning and not an end to the accolades that these heroes so rightly deserve. On that terrible day of September 11, 2001, Osama bin Laden, al-Qaeda and all those responsible for these terrorist attacks only saw the twin towers of the World Trade Center. They failed to see the millions and millions of patriots behind them, and that will lead to their downfall. The men and women of the New York Fire Department, Police Department, Port Authority Police and EMS and EMT and volunteer workers were the first in line behind the twin towers. In conclusion, I want to thank Chairman Sensenbrenner, Ranking Member Conyers and my good friend and colleague the gentleman from New York (Mr. Nadler) for the committee's expedited treatment of this bill, as well as the outpouring of support from my colleagues in Washington, my neighbors in New York and all the people of the country for their appreciation of America's everyday heroes.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, there are certain days whose importance in American history enable every American to know their importance by heart. July 4 and June 6 are days of heroism commemorating the bravery of our Founding Fathers and declaring their independence from tyranny and the courage of fellow Americans storming the beach at Normandy. December 7 is a day of infamy marking the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Like December 7, the annual anniversary of September 11 will bring back the feelings of shock and horror which we all felt as we saw the tragic events occurring right before our eyes. September 11 had always been just another day in the calendar year, a day when we went about our lives, a day no different than any other. This year that was ended forever, and it simply is no longer just another day. From now on, September 11 will not pass unrecognized. It will be a day of remembrance thanks to my colleague from Staten Island commemorating the thousands of people who lost their lives and the innocence which we as Americans lost. Every American, regardless of where they live, was touched personally by both the ghastly horror of the carnage of September 11, and more importantly, touched by the overwhelming outpouring of goodwill: the bravery of the police and firefighters, the corresponding applause and support that they got from all Americans, long lines of Americans giving blood, and the opening of wallets to support the victims and their families. We became unified as one American family that day, and all of the little differences seem so unimportant now. Mr. Speaker, I will never forget the importance of September 11. May we never have another day like it in our history. It will also be a day for families of the victims to remember their loved ones, a day for us to remember our heroes. Once again, I thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Fossella) and all of the sponsors of this legislation for bringing it forward today in such a timely manner.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, less than a week after the September 11 attack on America, this Congress passed a bailout package bill for the airline industry overwhelmingly, despite objections from this side of the aisle. We were told to have faith in the leadership of the Republican side of the aisle to address the issues of displaced workers. So much for faith. This bill does nothing to provide an influx of money into our economy, something that should be part of any stimulus package. It provides nothing to take care of the workers who need assistance like the 100,000 aviation employees thrown out of work in the past 6 weeks. It includes nothing to fund hiring and training of 75,000 new firefighters. I am from New York; and I have been to ground zero, as many of my colleagues have been. But the rebuilding of New York has begun, and thanks to this Congress it has begun, but we are nowhere near finished. We need to provide incentive for business to remain in New York City to keep our financial services sector strong. We need to provide assistance to our travel industry to help Americans know New York is open for business. We need to provide funding to rebuild and strengthen the infrastructure of New York. This was an attack on America and not just on New York. Do not further assault New Yorkers by neglecting them. This bill is not a stimulus package but an impediment package. I ask my colleagues to vote it down

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, October 1, 2001, marks the 41st anniversary of the Independence of Republic of Cyprus. It was on this date in 1960 that Cyprus became an independent republic after decades of British colonial rule. Cyprus and the United States have much in common. Both countries achieved their independence from Britain, and commemorate the anniversary of that independence as their national holiday. Moreover, both the United States and Cyprus maintain close relations with Britain today. Cyprus and the United States also share a deep and abiding commitment to democracy, human rights, free markets, and the ideal and practice of equal justice under law. This year, the people of Cyprus and the Cypriot-American community mark Cyprus Independence Day with a heavy heart, as the shock and grief over the September 11 terrorist attacks continues to be felt. The leaders and the people of Cyprus have expressed strong condemnation for the terrorists and those who support them, while voicing their solidarity with the American people. The Cyprus government has pledged to cooperate with the U.S. Government and all the other governments engaged in the battle against terrorism. Messages from Cypriot officials and religious leaders, including Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, the Ambassador of Cyprus to the United States Erato Kozakou Marcoullis, and the Primate of the Cyprus Church, Archbishop Chrysostomos, expressed shock and horror at these devastating attacks and a commitment of support and friendship in a time of need. Within hours of the terrorist attacks, Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides--who was on his way to New York at the time for meetings at the U.N.--strongly denounced the terrorist attacks. In a message to President Bush the day after the attacks, the Cyprus President strongly condemned, ``in the most unequivocal manner, these cowardly, horrific acts against the American people and extend to the families of the victims my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and the people of Cyprus.'' In its September 12 statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus noted that, ``The terrorist attacks were attacks not against the United States and its people but against the international legal order, democracy, freedom and the most fundamental of all human rights, that of the right to life. Yesterday, terrorists attacked humanity and human dignity.'' The statement continued, ``Yesterday's events underline that the members of the international community, both individually and collectively, must redouble their efforts in a more systematic and coordinated manner to fight terrorism and its sponsorship.'' The Cyprus Government, adopting a decision by the European Union, declared September 14 a Day of Mourning for the victims. Flags were flown at half-mast, while high-ranking officials and ordinary people signed a book of condolences at the U.S. Embassy in the capital of Nicosia. Many Cypriots laid flowers at the Embassy. Overseas Cypriots have also denounced the terrorist attacks against the US, describing them as ``barbaric acts against humanity.'' The International Coordinating Committee Justice for Cyprus (PSEKA), the World Federation of Overseas Cypriots (POMAK) and all their member organizations worldwide, said they were devastated by the terrorist attacks against thousands of people in the U.S. and that ``these barbaric acts against humanity prove nothing but the apathy and sickness of those committing them. Our prayers are for the families and with those missing and unaccounted for, and we praise those individuals who have given themselves selflessly, helping to the best of their abilities.'' Sadly, at least one American of Cypriot descent was killed in the attacks. Michael Tarrou, 38, an air steward, and his fiancee Amy King, were aboard United Airlines flight 175, which crashed into one of the World Trade Center towers. United States Ambassador to Cyprus Donald Bandler expressed gratitude for the sympathy and support received from the Cyprus government and people and expressed his condolences ``to Cypriots who have lost members of their family and friends in this tragic and senseless attack.'' Unfortunately, the commemoration of Cyprus's Independence Day is also clouded by the fact that 37 percent of the Mediterranean island nation's territory continues to be occupied by a hostile foreign power, as it has been for more than a quarter of a century. On July 20, 1974, Turkey invaded Cyprus, and to this day continues to maintain an estimated 35,000 heavily armed troops. Nearly 200,000 Greek Cypriots, who fell victim to a policy of ethnic cleansing, were forcibly evicted from their homes and became refugees in their own country. 1,493 Greek Cypriots, including four Americans of Cypriot descent, have been missing since 1974; the remains of another Cypriot American were found and identified in 1997, following an investigation mandated by the United States Congress. In 1983, in flagrant violation of international law and the treaties establishing the Republic of Cyprus and guaranteeing its independence and territorial integrity, Ankara promoted a ``unilateral declaration of independence'' in the area under its military occupation. The U.S. Government and the U.N. Security Council condemned the declaration and attempted secession. To date, no other country in the world except Turkey recognized the so-called ``Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.'' In a landmark May 10, 2001 decision, the European Court of Human Rights found Turkey responsible for continuing violations of human rights, emphasizing that the Republic of Cyprus is the sole legitimate Government of Cyprus and pointing out that Turkey is engaged in the policies and actions of the illegal occupation regime. Since 1974, the U.N. has adopted numerous resolutions on Cyprus that call for the withdrawal of all foreign forces from the island, the return of the refugees to their homes in safety and respect for the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus. The Security Council stated in 1999 that, ``a Cyprus settlement must be based on a State of Cyprus with a single sovereignty and international personality and a single citizenship, with its independence and territorial integrity safeguarded and comprising two political equal communities as described in the relevant Security Council resolutions, in a bicommunal and bi-zonal federation and that such a settlement must exclude union in whole or in part with any other country or any form of partition of secession.'' These parameters were reiterated by the Security Council on June 11, 2001. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus accepts these parameters as the basis for negotiations leading to the reunification of the island. However, Rauf Denktash, the leader of the Turkish-Cypriot side, backed by Ankara, withdrew from the peace talks last November and earlier this month rejected U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan's invitation to resume the talks on September 12, claiming the ground had not been prepared for talks and insisting on his demand for recognition of his self- styled regime in Turkish occupied Cyprus. On September 26, 2001, the U.N. Security Council expressed disappointment over the ``unjustified decision'' of the Turkish side to decline an invitation by the U.N. Secretary General to resume the search for a comprehensive settlement in Cyprus in New York in September. The Council stressed that ``progress can only be made at the negotiating table'' and urged all those concerned to cooperate with Kofi Annan and his Special Adviser Alvaro de Soto to help move the peace process forward. Council members encouraged the Secretary General and his Special Adviser to ``continue their efforts using the guidelines in Security Council resolutions 1250, namely that there should be no preconditions, that all issues are on the table, that both sides should make a commitment in good faith to negotiate until a settlement is reached and that there should be a full consideration of relevant U.N. resolutions and treaties.'' They also gave their ``full support to the Secretary General's efforts to achieve a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem. Despite the hardships and trauma caused by the ongoing Turkish occupation, Cyprus has registered remarkable economic growth, and the people living in the Government-controlled areas enjoy one of the world's highest standards of living. Sadly, the people living in the occupied area continue to be mired in poverty. Today, Cyprus is one of the leading candidate nations to join the European Union in the next round of expansion, in 3 to 4 years. On June 19, 2001, a concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 164) was introduced, ``expressing the sense of Congress that security, reconciliation, and prosperity for all Cypriots can be best achieved within the context of membership in the European Union that will provide significant rights and obligations for all Cypriots.'' The measure has 60 co-sponsors. On September 15, 2001, U.S. State Department Special Coordinator for Cyprus Thomas Weston reiterated Washington's ``unwavering support'' for U.N. efforts to find a negotiated settlement in Cyprus and said that the Republic's European Union accession process offers ``an incentive'' towards achieving this objective. He also said that Turkey, through its engagement with the EU for membership, can and should contribute towards a Cyprus solution. ``U.S. policy is very clear on Cyprus'' EU accession: we support Cyprus' accession and we believe the accession process offers an incentive and it is helpful to achieve a settlement in Cyprus,'' Mr. Weston said, noting that Washington continues to back the EU Helsinki conclusions which say a political settlement in Cyprus would facilitate accession but it is not a precondition for EU membership. He added, ``we believe that Turkey, through its political dialogue with the EU and the national program it has put forward, can and should contribute towards a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus question.'' The relationship between Cyprus and the United States is strong and enduring. The people of Cyprus stand with the American people at this time of tragedy in the United States, and share in the firm resolve to uphold the ideals of freedom, justice and democracy threatened by the evil hand of terrorism. For our part, on this important day, we continue to stand with the people of Cyprus in the continuing wish for a bizonal, bicommunal and federal Cyprus, created on the basis of the United Nations Security Council resolutions.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome to the United States India's Minister of External Affairs and Minister of Defense, Jaswant Singh. As a leader of the world's largest democracy, Minister Singh's visit to America is timely. In light of the tragic events of September 11, it is increasingly important for leaders of the world's great nations to unite to protect the freedoms and liberties of democracy. On behalf of the United States government and the American people, I would like to thank Minister Singh and the government of India for strongly condemning the terrorist attacks on the United States, and for expressing their unconditional willingness to assist in fighting the new global war against terrorism. Sadly, approximately 250 Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin were killed in the September 11th attacks. To the victims and their families I extend my deepest sympathies. As has America, India has experienced first-hand the devastating consequences of cross-border terrorism. In the past fifteen years, approximately 53,000 civilians in India have been killed by indiscriminate terrorist acts. The global nature of terrorism and its far-reaching effects require concerted global action. We trust that future cooperation with India's leaders to combat terrorism, not only in South Asia and here in the U.S., but together around the world, will strengthen and will reinforce the important relationship between our countries. In recent years, the United States and India have moved towards increased cooperation and improved understanding. The trend towards improved bi-lateral relations is evidenced by the US-India Summit Meetings held in New Delhi in March of 2000, and the formation of our Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism early that same year. In light of the current situation in the U.S. and instability in South Asia, we recognize that open communication, dialogue, and partnership between our democratic nations must be maintained and enhanced as we strive together to achieve common goals and to promote peace in the region. We remain committed to cooperating with the government and people of India on issues of common interest, and we commend India for the role that she has undertaken in working towards greater prosperity and stability in South Asia. Of particular importance now, however, is the return of Pakistan to a democratic government, and the establishment of peace in the Kashmir region. Such shared goals offer opportunities for collaboration, and indeed, require international collaboration if they are to be realized. Clearly, these issues remain central to South Asia's future stability. The war on terrorism aside Mr. Speaker, as a member of the India Caucus, I look forward to continuing work to improve America's trade, investment, and military cooperation with India. It is my hope that we will continue the processes begun in past years to construct a valuable working relationship with India, one that is mutually beneficial to both our countries. We recognize India's role as a political, economic, and military force in regional and world affairs, and thus seek her continued cooperation and partnership. I extend my sincere wishes to your Minister Singh for a most productive visit to Washington. Your country is an extremely important friend of America's, and I again thank you for the support that your nation has offered to the United States.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the aviation assistance package. As both the representative of LaGuardia Airport and a member of the Committee on Financial Services, I understand firsthand the importance of sending a signal to the capital markets that our airlines are strong and will receive the support they need to continue to operate. The importance of securing the financial viability of our Nation's air carriers cannot be overstated. Additionally, this bill makes an effort to expedite compensation packages for those injured or lost in last week's vicious attacks upon our city. I welcome this bill, but as a first step towards remedying a number of other problems involved with the economic problems befalling our airline industry. There are a number of things that this bill does not do. We need to provide protections for health care and pay for the over 90,000 airline employees who have lost their jobs in the face of the economic hardship hitting the domestic airline industry, and we all know there could be more to come. Furthermore, this Congress needs to bolster airline security. If we really want to restore consumer confidence, we need to provide increased safety to the airlines. We need to make the American public feel safe while flying. I am not voting for this bill because I trust the airlines, and I am not voting for this bill because I trust airline executives. I am voting for this bill because I trust the American people. I know the American people will make this country strong again. My faith in their ability to rebuild our economy, if given the opportunity, is unwavering. I know this much is true. And I hope the American people show their faith by getting on an airplane to go to Disneyland, by visiting Las Vegas, by visiting our Nation's capitol. But most importantly, I ask my colleagues' constituents to revisit my city, New York, in the very, very near future.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California, my friend, for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to speak again about the heinous crime committed against the American people, people all over the land, living here in the United States, and against our great Nation. On Tuesday, September 11, the lives of all Americans changed forever. As a Nation, we have grieved and we have joined our hearts together in prayer. We have watched as our lives have been put on hold so that we may honor the dead and the missing. We keep hope alive for the brave men and women who continue to work around the clock to search for life and survivors. I spoke yesterday about my dear cousin, Battalion Chief John Moran, who so bravely dedicated his life to the saving of the lives of others at the site of this attack. My cousin, like so many others who are heroes, has not been found. Mr. Speaker, we will all be rebuilding emotionally and physically for some time to come. Our great Nation stands changed for ever. Yet somehow it is also stronger, more united, and more defiantly proud than ever. These truly are, as our great President Abraham Lincoln stated during another difficult period in American history, the times that try men's souls. Our physical symbols have been destroyed and thousands of lives are feared lost, but our values and ideals of freedom and democracy stand stronger than ever. These values shared by all Americans of all religions and backgrounds is what causes such hatred and jealousy in the hearts and the minds of our enemies. I recently saw a photograph of the New York City skyline which had in its midst the image of a new skyscraper where the towers of the World Trade Center once stood, and the caption on top said, ``we will rebuild.'' Mr. Speaker, we will rebuild. While we honor those who have lost their lives and try to absorb the terrible losses of the last several days and try in our own individual and collective ways to move forward, we cannot forget the perpetrators of this reprehensible crime; those who planned, authorized, aided and abetted these attacks. They must not and they will not go unpunished. But, Mr. Speaker, make no mistake; the response of the United States, the House of Representatives, has been carefully considered. We have all taken a deep breath and searched our hearts and souls for an appropriate and just response. I myself have just come back from visiting ground zero with our President in New York. I stood with him surrounded by firefighters, police officers, and rescue workers who have worked since Tuesday tirelessly searching for bodies, praying to find anyone who survived this horrific attack. Mr. Speaker, I was proud to stand there with my President, with my colleagues, and with these brave men and women. And for the first time this week, I felt a glimmer of hope and a whole lot of pride, pride for our Nation that takes care of itself, for a nation that has men and women like the ones I saw and met today and this week who have put themselves in harm's way to save the lives of others; proud that despite the destruction of physical symbols, that it is the undying principles that endure. Tonight we consider another measure, this one to enable the President, our Commander in Chief, to use whatever means required to bring this crime to justice. For the memory of those who served and the memory of those innocent lives taken so very prematurely, it is the very least we can do. Americans by nature are not a vengeful people, but we need to respond to these attacks so as to ensure that they never happen again. As the Commander in Chief, the President must provide for the common defense and promote the general welfare of our people, this resolution permits our Commander in Chief to do just that. I support this resolution, not lightly but without hesitation. This resolution and the authority it contains allows for the protection of our American way of life for generations to come.