Joe Crowley

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise, and it is an honor for me to rise this evening, in support of H.R. 6033, legislation, as duly noted by my friend Mr. Davis, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 39-25 61st Street in Woodside, New York, as the Thomas J. Manton Post Office Building. I want to first extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to Chairman Tom Davis for his expediting this legislation to the floor. As was mentioned, Tom Manton died only recently, at the end of July, and to have this bill on the floor as quickly as we have, I owe a great deal of debt to Tom. Thank you, Mr. Davis, for your work on this. I also want to thank the ranking member, Mr. Henry Waxman, again a gentleman who saw fit to move this legislation quickly; the majority leader, John Boehner, as well and his office. In particular I want to thank Denise Wilson of the Government Reform staff as well for her helping move this forward. I want to thank our leader, Nancy Pelosi, and Chairman Barton and Ranking Member John Dingell for their help in moving this expeditiously to the floor. I also want to thank all my colleagues from New York who unanimously supported this renaming, but particularly I want to thank the dean of our delegation from Long Island and Queens County, Representative Gary Ackerman, as well as Carolyn Maloney, Nydia Velazquez, Greg Meeks, Anthony Weiner, and, of course, we can't forget the dean of the New York delegation, Charlie Rangel, but all New Yorkers, with the support of both Democrat and Republican, without cause. Nita Lowey, for her work and for all their friendship with Tom Manton and their kind words back in July when this House recognized his passing. I appreciate that. My constituents certainly appreciate that as well. I know that the Manton family, in particular Diane Manton, is very appreciative of the honor that we bestow upon her late, great husband, former Congressman Tom Manton. Many of my colleagues in Congress are familiar with the exemplary service of former Congressman Tom Manton because you served with him. But for those who don't recall, he served with honor and distinction in the United States House of Representatives from 1984 to 1999. He replaced the then legendary former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro. Before that, Tom Manton came from humble Irish American roots. He loved his country, America, and certainly loved his ancestral homeland of Ireland as well, and that was reflected in the community he grew up in. Woodside, New York, was and still remains a community that has an Irish flavor to it. Tom Manton served the City of New York first as a member of the New York City Police Department. He had worked for a time for IBM and there had been some discussion at one time that he sold computers for IBM. Let me just make it perfectly clear. When Tom Manton worked for IBM, computers were bigger than this room. He did not sell computers for IBM. I think it was he sold typewriters for IBM. It is important to make that distinction. But after that he had gone to law school at St. John's and he graduated and ran for the New York City Council and served there with distinction for 15 years before coming on to serve here in the House of Representatives. As I mentioned before, the neighborhood that this Post Office is located in, if you took a dart and threw it at the map of New York City and you hit bullseye, you would be right in Woodside-Queens, New York, as I mentioned before, a community that is known for its Irish American community and one of the still largest concentrations of Irish American immigrants in our Nation today. Woodside is also my hometown, my home neighborhood. It is also very diverse. It is a multi-ethnic neighborhood, and an ever-changing part of my district, as it was for Tom Manton, and is often the first stop for new immigrants to our great country. While we may hear less Irish and Italian accents and more Turkish, Bengali, Hindi and Spanish in local stores, the neighborhood of Woodside is as vibrant today as it was when I was a young child and it was when Tom Manton served as its legislator. Naming this Post Office after Tom Manton, again, the son of Irish immigrants, who rose to serve in these hallowed halls, is a perfect reminder to that potential that exists for all immigrants and their children today in the United States that it is as unlimited as it was for Tom Manton and as it was for his parents to see him become a Member of Congress, as it is for my parents to be here to see me become a Member of Congress and for previous generations. I want to thank all my colleagues again for their expediting this legislation. Tom Manton was more than my predecessor. He was my counsel, he was my mentor, and, more importantly, he was my friend. For you to recognize him in this way and in such a manner does more in many respects to my own heart, and I really appreciate this. Again, on behalf of the Manton family, and in particular Diane Manton, his wife, and his children and his grandchildren and the people of the Seventh Congressional District, in particular Woodside, I thank this entire Congress for its unanimous support for renaming this Post Office after Tom Manton.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from New York for yielding me the time, and I rise in strong support of this bipartisan piece of legislation. I want to commend the work of Majority Whip Blunt, a good friend, as well as Representative Pryce and Representative Maloney for their leadership of working on this legislation. I also want to recognize the outgoing chairman and my good friend, Mike Oxley, for all of his work on this and the many pieces of legislation we have worked together on in a bipartisan way, and particularly Barney Frank, who saw through all of this, cut through the politics and right to the chase and worked very hard in seeing that this important bill passed today. H.R. 5337 works to keep the flow of direct foreign investment in the U.S.A. strong while putting national security first. This is a good jobs bill, pro-business. It is pro-labor, and this bill does all things to help to secure our Nation, yet not stop investment here in the United States. I am pleased to say this bill enjoyed unanimous support in the Committee on Financial Services, passing on a 64-0 vote. This bill enjoys the support of everyone from the Center for American Progress to the Chamber of Commerce. This bill is about keeping the flow of foreign investment coming to the U.S. and not driving these funds and their subsequent jobs out of the country. But H.R. 5337 includes new, tough safeguards put in place to ensure the security of America first. This entire legislative initiative, which has been pursued in a bipartisan fashion, is a result of the botched handling of the DPW transaction, the Dubai Ports deal. That transaction involved a government-owned company from Dubai buying into various port assets here in the United States. As a result, a significant and appropriate focus of the committee has been to toughen the scrutiny for acquisitions by government-owned companies since some government-owned companies will make decisions based on government interests and not commercial interests. No job, no deal, no transaction is worth threatening the safety of Americans, and this bill puts those conditions in place. We all know this to be true, but being from New York City, it is even more true. This bill will provide strong, new safeguards to ensure our Nation's security and protect critical infrastructure, but also continues to give CFIUS flexibility to exercise discretion, allowing CFIUS to focus on the deals that raise real national security issues and not get bogged down into those deals with no national security implications at all. For example, this bill will allow CFIUS to go straight to an investigation phase if CFIUS so decides that the concerns are so serious as to merit this. This is a good bill, protecting national security, guaranteeing the flow of direct foreign investment in the U.S., and ensuring we will not have another Dubai Ports debacle, and I, therefore, urge its passage in the House today. And finally, I understand the Senate is in the process of moving their bill forward, and I look forward to a constructive conference with the Senate, but this issue is far too important to compromise our national security or our Nation's economic security on backroom wheeling and dealing. We, in the House, in a bipartisan manner, recognize the diligence that went into crafting this bill, and we will work for this to be the lead text in any conference. The Senate bill does not meet our important threshold on national or economic security. This bill does, and I know we in House who have worked as hard as we have will fight in conference for a good bill or we will take no bill at all. I urge a ``yes'' vote on this bill. It protects national security, enhances the ability of more foreign investment here in the U.S.A. and ensures the transparency of CFIUS.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from California. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act, and I want to commend Chairman Hyde and Ranking Member Lantos for the work they put into crafting this bipartisan legislation that we have before us today. And I would like to thank the current chairs of the caucus on India and Indian Americans, Representative Gary Ackerman from Queens and my good friend Ileana Ros-Lehtinen from Florida for the support they have given to the passage of this agreement. I must also recognize the Indian-American community for the incredible advocacy work they have done to educate Members of Congress on the importance of this agreement. I want it to be clear that this vote sets the stage for allowing the cooperation, but the actual exchange of civilian nuclear cooperation will not take place until Congress is provided with the details of the relevant negotiations and takes a second up-or-down vote. We will be taking an historic step in our relations today by passing this agreement. This is about nuclear power access, not nuclear weapons enhancement. By passing this agreement, we will be bringing an India that has remained outside the nonproliferation regime for the past 32 years under the nonproliferation tent. Some of my colleagues have argued we are destroying the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, also known as the NPT, by passing this agreement. But while I have the deepest respect for the treaty and those who support it, we must be realistic in understanding why this deal needs to be done. India cannot sign the NPT unless it were to give up its nuclear weapons, which is unrealistic to ask a nation who finds themselves surrounded by nuclear-armed nations they have fought wars against. India has been punished for the past 32 years for testing a nuclear weapon, and during these 32 years of NPT limbo they have not externally proliferated, while remaining a true democracy with a strong rule of law. We need to use India as an example of what a nation should be doing to gain the respect and inclusion by the international community. I urge my colleagues to end India's nuclear isolation and allow them to be brought into the nonproliferation tent with the rest of the responsible states who seek safe and efficient civilian nuclear technology. I support this legislation because I support the relationship that our two countries should and will be sharing. If we expect India to be our ally in the 21st century, we must treat them as an equal, which is what this cooperation will provide. I trust my colleagues will recognize what our future with India holds and vote for final passage of this legislation.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, NPT, the Nonproliferation Treaty, is something that we all hold in great respect. But I believe, as do many of my colleagues, the ``T'' needs to stand for tent. We need to find a way to bring India into the tent of nonproliferators, as she has always been a nonproliferating country. She has never once proliferated beyond her borders, unlike some of her neighbors. If you want to have a similar deal as has been struck between the United States and India, you need to act as Gary Ackerman says, like India. I urge all my colleagues to support the rule and final passage of a clean bill.

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the rule for the India Nuclear Cooperation Promotion Act, and I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding me this time. This rule provides debate for relevant amendments to the proposed civilian nuclear cooperation deal between the United States and India. I strongly support the passage of this bill, as do many former Clinton administration officials. Former Defense Secretary Richard Cohen said, and I quote, ``The most important strategic agreement that we will have reached in recent times has been that of the United States and India on this non-nuclear agreement.'' Former Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Rick Inderfurth said, and I quote, ``It is the right call for us in the world, really. This is a way to bring India into a global nonproliferation regime, rather than leaving it on the outside.'' Former Ambassador and career Foreign Service Officer Terestia Schaffer said, and I quote, ``The nuclear system will be much more robust and potentially more effective with India on the inside than on the outside.'' And today former Ambassadors to India Tom Pickering and Frank Wisner wrote an op/ed supporting the deal, which I would like to ask unanimous consent to have added to the Record.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Export-Import Bank Reauthorization under suspension vote today. This is a sound, bipartisan bill. So often, people see the acrimonious side of this House rife with partisanship and member distrust. We do not have that on the Financial Services Committee, and that is due in large part to the leadership of Chairman Mike Oxley and our Ranking Member, Barney Frank. While I am working hard to see Barney become our chairman in the 110th Congress, I just want to salute our outgoing Chair, Mike Oxley. He is a hard working member who is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and work with people across the aisle to get the important work done. He is results oriented. Legislatively, he has a long list of accomplishments to be proud of, including this bill, but it is his spirit of bipartisanship, friendship and class for which we should all look to him for. But he can also be a formidable foe, from the committee room to the baseball diamond. He will be missed next year. Stating that I do support this bipartisan bill--it is a real jobs bill. This bill will strengthen the Export-Import Bank's abilities to allow American companies to compete in the global market as we try to increase our exports, increase our global competitiveness and create more and better paying jobs in the U.S.A. This is a bill about exporting products not jobs. Additionally, besides the overall nature of this bill, I was able to add important language to this reauthorization pertaining to the nation of Armenia--a strong U.S. ally in the Caucasus. My amendment, done with Congressmen Ed Royce and Brad Sherman, prohibits the Export-Import Bank from funding any railway projects from Azerbaijan, through Georgia and Turkey, which specifically bypass Armenia. I am very pleased that this language was included in the final version of this legislation being debated on the House floor today. This language will assist in promoting stability in the Caucasus region, help in ending long standing conflicts, and save U.S. taxpayers the responsibility of funding a project that goes against U.S. interests. For over 10 years, Armenia has fought an illegal blockade, imposed on them by the countries of Turkey and Azerbaijan. These two countries continually exclude Armenia from regional development. Just recently, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia finished construction on the Baku-Tblisi-Ceyhan pipeline. This pipeline does not pass through Armenia, even though the fastest and most economically sound route is through the country. Now Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia plan on constructing a railway that will completely bypass Armenia once again; once again excluding Armenia from regional development. Exclusion of one country in regional projects only fosters instability. Having Export-Import Bank support a railway project which excludes Armenia is not the way to include all countries in regional development. I am pleased that the Bank is now prohibited from doing so in this bill. Besides possibly creating a regional crisis, this project, if funded by the Export-Import Bank could cost taxpayers millions. I do not believe that U.S. taxpayers should be funding a project that goes against U.S. interests. I am pleased this good language was added to an already good bill--a jobs bill for America Therefore, I urge my colleagues to support the Export-Import Reauthorization.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in sadness to pay tribute to my predecessor here in Congress, Tom Manton. In politics, as in life, you can only achieve greatness by building on the path that those before you have taken. Tom was a mentor to me, a friend, a confidante. Tom Manton truly loved serving here in this institution, with his friends on both sides of the aisle. I will truly miss his friendship, and our city and our State of New York will miss his leadership. My condolences go out to his wife, Diane, and to all his children and his grandchildren on the passing of their husband, their father and their grandfather. Tom Manton was born in New York City in 1932. He was the son of a working class Irish immigrant. His father actually worked here on Capitol Hill as a plasterer, laying plaster in the Longworth Building. He often talked about that historical note. He would often say only in America can a son of someone who built the halls of Congress one day serve in the halls of Congress. Tom Manton went on to law school at the St. John's University where he got his law degree, but before that, he was a police officer, a computer salesman, and after law school was elected to the New York City Council in 1969, representing what are still parts of today the 7th congressional district that I have the honor of serving in. In 1986, after the death of Donald Manes, Tom Manton stepped up and filled the role as chair of the County of Queens Democratic Party. When our party in Queens was at its lowest ebb, Tom Manton took the reins of control and brought back the image of Democrats in Queens County and in New York City and New York State. He instilled discipline from time to time, which is part of the role of a county leader, but he worked to make the party the preeminent political party, not only of New York City and New York State, but many would argue our Nation today. Presidential candidates, from Mike Dukakis and Dick Gephardt and Fritz Mondale and Bob Kerry, Bill Clinton, and John Kerry, all sought his support and the support of Queens Democrats to help propel them to higher office and, in the instance of Bill Clinton, successfully helping to make him President of the United States. But Tom has helped elected officials at every level achieve their goals, the firsts of firsts in many respects: the first Indian political leader, under his tutelage; the first Bangladeshi American political leader, under his tutelage; the first Latino from Queens to the New York State assembly; the first openly gay political leader; the first woman as Borough president; and the first African American woman as Borough president; and the list goes on and on. Tom always had the bug for Congress and ran in 1972 against an incumbent, James Delaney. He lost that election, but he also ran again in 1978 against Geraldine Ferraro. Once again, he lost, but he did not let that keep him down. When Geraldine Ferraro was tapped by Walter Mondale to run as his running mate in 1984, Tom took the opportunity to run for and finally win a seat in Congress. In Congress, he was an inside political player who earned a seat on the Committee on Energy and Commerce. He fought tenaciously through this committee for the interests of New York, bringing countless jobs and Federal resources to his district. One of his major accomplishments was the establishment of the Ad-Hoc Committee of Irish Affairs which he used as a forum to represent one of the largest communities of Irish immigrants in the United States. As co-chair of this committee, he worked closely with President Clinton to urge him to grant a visa to Gerry Adams, and this began the peace process that led to the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland. As a friend and a mentor, I have to say, in addition to being a caring husband, grandfather, and father, Tom was a dear friend to many. In 1984, my uncle, Walter Crowley, ran against Tom Manton in that open primary seat that I spoke of earlier. I worked very hard for my Uncle Walter in that campaign, and I remember vividly the heartbreaking loss my Uncle endured and that I felt myself. Tom Manton was an unspoken name in our household. It was a bad word. You couldn't say that name. But not long after that, Tom Manton tapped me on the shoulder at the County Cork Association dance on Greenpoint Avenue, and he said to me, how would you like to be the next assemblyman from the 30th assembly district? Why don't you think about getting in that primary. And I did. I won a subway primary, with his support and under his tutelage. In 1998, I was proud to succeed him here in Congress as the Congressman from the Seventh Congressional District. I know how proud Tom was to serve in this Congress, and I know how proud I am of the work that he did here, and I am proud to succeed him here in Congress to this day. There is not a day that I am not grateful for the opportunities that Tom Manton created for me and for my life. To Tom's wife, Diane; to his four children, Cathy Manton Laurent of Schenectady, Tom Manton of London, John Manton of Woodside, Queens, and Jeanne of Astoria; and to his four grandchildren, Nicole, Marc, Danielle, and Liam Henry, and incidentally, Liam Henry, Tom would always remind me, is the same name of my son and how it was a great coincidence that he and I would share that as well. It was something that in this last year particularly he would always point out to me, and it brought a chuckle to him and to me as well. I want you all to know that Tom, your granddad, your father, and your husband, is in our thoughts and in our prayers. But more importantly, Diane, you and your children and your grandchildren are in all the prayers of the Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle. I have to say for the record, I loved Tom Manton, and he is not the kind of guy you would say that to. I didn't have to say it to him. He knew it. There was an unspoken language between the two of us. He knew how I felt about him, and I certainly knew how he felt about me. He showed it in so many ways. I will miss my good friend, my mentor, Tom Manton, as I know his law partners will, as his community will. His legacy will live on in so many people but especially in this Member of Congress. Mr. Speaker, I submit for the Record the Associated Press article regarding Tom Manton's death. (From Newsday, July 23, 2006) Thomas Manton, Former Congressman From New York, Dies (By Devlin Barrett) Washington--Thomas Manton, a former congressman who for years wielded his influence to shape New York City's political landscape, has died. He was 73. The seven-term congressman died Saturday, said Rep. Joseph Crowley, who took Manton's Queens congressional seat when he retired. Crowley declined to discuss the cause of death but Michael Reich, the Queens Democratic Party's executive secretary and Manton's spokesman, told the (New York) Daily News that Manton died of an undisclosed and lengthy illness. Elected 20 years ago to his post as Queens Democratic Party chair, Manton was known as a behind-the-scenes politician who fostered the careers of City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and other local political figures. When he announced his retirement from Congress in 1998, he successfully hand-picked Crowley, then a state assemblyman, as his successor, and he played a role in the selection of the two most recent City Council speakers. ``He was a great man and a great friend and he'll be terribly missed,'' Crowley said Sunday. ``He's left the Queens Democratic party in a very strong position.'' New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg said he had reached out to Manton when he first began considering entering politics. ``He was a classy guy. It's a sad day,'' said the Republican mayor, a former Democrat. ``We really did lose someone who made a difference.'' Manton served 15 years on the New York City Council before taking over Geraldine Ferraro's congressional seat when she ran for vice president in 1984. As a congressman, he had little problem getting re-elected, winning with 87 percent of the vote in 1994. He said his years as a city councilman made him sensitive to the needs of constituent service and set the tone for his congressional career, which was focused on local concerns and New York City politics. As the head of the county party, he helped choose the city's leaders and, Crowley said, helped open up the party leadership to minority groups. ``He was a steady rudder of the ship who brought the Queens party back from its lowest ebb. He diversified the leadership of the county, welcoming minority leaders,'' said Crowley. Born in 1932 to Irish immigrant parents in Manhattan, Manton carved a colorful career path, serving as a New York City police officer, an IBM salesman and a flight navigator for the U.S. Marine Corps. He worked as a lawyer for decades, reportedly retiring just months before his death.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of my Special Order today.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 32nd anniversary of the Turkish Invasion of Cyprus. Although this event took place 32 years ago, the situation is still one that demands attention and strong intervention today. In 1974 Turkish military forces invaded the Greek island of Cyprus thereby disrupting the lives of its citizens. In two waves, Turkey was able to seize control of more than one-third of the Island by labeling the invasion as a ``peace keeping operation.'' As a result, Northern Cyprus was divided by a 113 mile barbed fence, which thereby prevented Cypriots from visiting areas and communities within their country. Turkish presence on the island of Cyprus is in clear violation of repeated U.N. Security Council Resolutions. There are currently 35,000 Turkish troops illegally stationed in Cyprus as it continues to remain one of the most militarized areas in the world. As a result of the invasion over 250,000 Greek Cypriots were subject to ethnic cleansing in Northern Cyprus. I would like to commend Congressman Bilirakis and Congresswoman Maloney for bringing this issue to a forefront in Congress. I sincerely hope that we will see a better day when the people of Cyprus who have been disenfranchised will receive proper treatment and regard. Again, I want to express my support for the true government of Cyprus, and I urge the United States government, the European Union and the United Nations to continue efforts in finding a solution to this unfortunate predicament.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, the issue of trade has remained contentious over the years. I believe in the ideals of free trade but it must also be fair trade. We have to take a close look at each agreement and weigh them on their individual merits. If the President wants to receive overwhelming support on these agreements he has the power to do it. President Bush has the power to make trade an issue that is strongly supported by all of my colleagues, but he refuses to add what Democrats have been demanding on labor and the environment. When I look at an agreement various factors go into making my decision process, are we opening new markets for our goods and services, will labor standards be protected, what is our relationship with our potential free trade partner. As a member of the Middle East subcommittee on the International Relations Committee, I view Oman not as just a trade bill but also as a foreign policy tool. Oman has been a strong friend and ally of the United States and is providing critical assistance in the global war against terrorism and this agreement will continue to strengthen our relationship. The 9/11 Commission has recommended that the United States build stronger relationship with moderate Muslim nations such as Oman to build an economic and political partnership. Besides the economic benefits the United States will enjoy from the implementation of this free trade agreement it also has spurred our friends in Oman to move beyond their current labor laws. While I would like to see a more progressive stance on labor, I believe these new reforms are genuine. Oman has shown they are a stable nation in a sea of conflicts in the Middle East and my hope is that this agreement will help move them further down the path of moderation. I think it is worth noting that during Israel's recent conflict with Hezbollah and Hamas, Oman has been noticeably restrained in criticizing the Jewish State for protecting her citizens. Oman is a valued member of the Middle East community and this agreement will make them even more so. At the core of this trade initiative is the belief that through economic opportunity and partnership, with the United States and Israel, that the goal of peace in the region can be furthered. I understand that perfection can be an unattainable goal but sometimes you must weigh all the pros and cons and on Oman the pros tipped the scale. I also want to address the point of the Dubai port sale raised by the opponents and the ability of an Omani company or another company to base themselves in Oman to try to purchase American port facilities or other infrastructure. While there are many theoreticals as to what could or could not happen, any purchase of an American asset by an Omani company would be subject to review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, CFIUS. As the lead sponsor along with Representatives Roy Blunt, Carolyn Maloney, and Deborah Pryce of a bipartisan CFIUS reform, I understand the purchase of American assets by foreign companies or governments well. This agreement with Oman does not change one bit the CFIUS process and doesn't make it any less secure.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, once again I thank my great friend from the State of California for yielding me this time. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak out in strong support of a democratic nation under attack by terrorists, a nation that has been under attack every day for 58 years of its existence. As we debate this bill, over a quarter of a million Israelis are in bomb shelters or awaiting to rush to safety from missiles being launched specifically at civilian targets. Think about that. As we are debating this evening, a quarter of a million Israelis are seeking cover, launched by a terrorist organization, funded by Syria and Iran waging a proxy war in Israel. I take some exceptions to some comments made by a colleague earlier tonight, and that is about the accuracy of rockets being launched by Hezbollah. The goal of Hezbollah is to inflict as many civilian casualties as possible, end of story. Yesterday I read a report from Human Rights Watch that called the missile strikes on Israel possible war crimes. The rockets launched against Israel, and specifically in Haifa, contained metal ball bearings that have limited use against military targets. They probably will not even destroy a building in and of themselves. They can do incredible damage to civilian populations, tearing people's bodies apart. Hezbollah fires these inaccurate Katyusha rockets that do not differentiate between Jews, Arabs or Christians or whatever they may be in Israel. In fact, one of these missiles killed two Israeli Arab children today when it struck the city of Nazareth, an ancient Christian city with a majority of Arab inhabitants. I am saddened by all loss of civilian and innocent life, but I strongly support Israel's right to defend itself by removing the threats against her, wherever they may be. This conflict was preventable. Our allies in Europe and the Middle East must know that the operation in Lebanon is not an act of war, but an act of self-defense. Israel is not looking for this fight, but Hamas and Hezbollah created the events we have been watching by murdering and kidnapping members of the Israeli Defense Forces and launching over 800 deadly missiles into Israel over the past week. Israel must do everything in its power to protect all of its citizens, and I am proud that this Congress stands with our friends and our allies in Israel by passing this worthy resolution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for yielding me this time. I want to join saluting all those who are sponsoring this resolution today. In particular I want to salute the cochairs of the India Caucus, Mr. Ackerman and Ms. Ros-Lehtinen, for their words in support of this resolution today and their leadership as cochairs of the caucus. I rise to express myself in the strongest way in support of this resolution and extend my sincere condolences to all of the families of all of the victims of last week's bombing in Mumbai, India. I would like to thank the majority leader for bringing this resolution to the floor today. And in particular once again I want to thank Mr. Lantos for his leadership and Chairman Hyde for his leadership on the committee in working with us to bring this important resolution to the floor. On July 11, 2006, over 200 innocent people were brutally murdered in India's financial capital by terrorists. Right before these coordinated attacks, terrorists killed 8 people and injured 40 more civilians in Kashmir. Attacks like these are a scourge on our world that all democratic nations must join in unison to fight. By targeting Mumbai's commuter rail service at the height of rush hour, the terrorists had hoped to accomplish the maximum amount of bloodshed for this cowardly act on innocent civilians. But the Indian people responded to the attacks by turning out in hundreds to donate blood, taking bed sheets to turn into stretchers, and offering assistance and comfort to the victims of this attack. Today as Members of Congress we send our condolences to the families of the victims. We condemn this act of terrorism by these perpetrators of this senseless act of carnage. And we express our sympathy with all the people of India and all the people of goodwill throughout this world. India has remained a strong ally of the United States in our global fight against terrorism. And the United States will never forget that. The terrorists who have been attacking India since their founding are the same brand of extremists who continue to threaten the United States of America. Our two countries need to increase our cooperation to root out all terrorism. Since President Clinton's administration, our country has been moving closer to India to create the natural alliance we should have always had. And, thankfully, President Bush recognized what this relationship could become, and just over a year ago, our two nations signed the July 18 declaration. This declared our resolve to transform our relationship and establish a global partnership committed to the values of human freedom, democracy and the rule of law. This relationship will promote stability, democracy, prosperity and peace throughout the world and enhance our ability to work together to provide global leadership in areas of mutual concern and interest. With this resolution today, we are reinforcing that relationship. We are pledging our support for the Indian Government as it seeks to reassure its people and capture and bring the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice during these very, very difficult times in India. I want to thank my over 100 colleagues who have joined us in sponsoring this resolution today. And I ask each and every one of you, my colleagues, for a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Italy on winning the 2006 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup. Throughout the competition Italy exhibited great sportsmanship and competitive skill that carried them through to the final round. Billions of soccer fans across he globe had the opportunity to follow Italy as the team progressed to become one of the most successful countries in World Cup history. Under the extraordinary leadership of head coach Marcello Lippi and team Captain Fabio Cannavaro, Italy was able to win the championship for the fourth time in World Cup history. Some of the most enthusiastic fans of Italy hailed from the United States and were able to support their favorite team. Italy's victory was especially exciting for the millions of Italian Americans who proudly value Italian culture and heritage. I would like to commend Congressman Fossella for introducing H. Res. 908 to honor Italy's great athletic accomplishment. By participating in the FIFA World Cup, Italy was able to partake in an excellent forum for the development of international friendship and relationships.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Federally funded, ethical stem cell research. H.R. 810 passed by the House and passed the Senate on July 18, 2006 accomplishes this goal. This important legislation would lift the ban on which stem cell lines can be researched using Federal dollars. It provides sound rules and regulations to govern the research of stem cells, such as preventing human cloning for embryos or the deliberate destruction of embryos, while also providing doctors and scientists the ability to perform more research to find new cures for degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, spinal chord injuries, and diabetes. Many of my colleagues on the Republican side of the aisle believe this legislation will open the door to rouge doctors to perform cloning procedures, or will allow for the use of Federal funds to actually destroy the embryos. Let me be crystal clear, this legislation will NOT allow Federal funds to be used in the destruction of embryos, nor will this legislation allow these funds to be used in cloning. We, as a country, excel in so much; let us push forward on important research rather then regressing. With embryonic stem cell research we could potentially save the lives of an estimated 100 million Americans. While this bill has overwhelming support from our country's leading scientists, biomedical researchers, patient advocacy groups, and health organizations, along with many religious leaders. President Bush has emphatically stated he will veto this legislation; the first veto thus far of his 6-year administration. I cannot, on my conscience stand face to face with an individual suffering from a degenerative disease, and tell them that an embryo that will be discarded is more important then saving their lives. President Bush, I ask you to reconsider your stance on H.R. 810, the stem cell research bill. Leave a lasting legacy on your Presidency, this country and the entire world. Sign this important legislation into law. I support this legislation and stand with my colleagues in the House and the Senate.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of a clean version of the Voting Rights Act; a version that is free of mean spirited amendments that aim to divide this country rather then unify and protect the rights of minorities to vote. After being delayed for close to a month, the Voting Rights Act is finally allowed the vote it deserves. However, numerous Republican members would like nothing more then to see this important legislation derailed. Hence they have offered up amendments that will taint the purity of this bill. One such amendment would prohibit Federal funds to be used in enforcing bilingual balloting. Many of the constituents that I and other members of this Chamber represent, would like nothing more then to participate in the basic democratic right of voting. However, many of these people who are citizens still struggle while they learn the English language and assimilate. Let me be clear, we are not talking about undocumented residents. These are citizens of the United States. Many of whom have voted you and me into the office that we hold today. The Voting Rights Act was passed in 1965 to protect the rights of all minorities to vote in the United States. However, these amendments offered today, are political tricks that only serve to continue to disenfranchise minority voters. From not counting votes, purging legitimate voters from voter rolls, mandating ID cards to vote, and downright voter intimidation, it is clear now more then ever that the Voting Rights Act must be reauthorized as the original drafters of the legislation intended-- excluding all amendments to this legislation that are being offered today. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on any amendment to the Voting Rights Act and vote ``yes'' on a clean version of this bill.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the resolution that my good friend from California, Mr. Lantos introduced. I am proud to have my name attached to this resolution as an original cosponsor. Mr. Lantos has been leading the way when it comes to fighting the repressive junta that controls Burma with an iron fist and I would like to commend him for his continued support. The United States has been a leader in pushing the world to recognize the atrocities the military junta in Burma commits on a daily basis. Mr. Speaker, because of our country's diplomatic efforts on a multilateral front the military junta is feeling the pressure. The European Union had joined us in placing sanctions on the regime, a step that shows the unity of the West against the junta's human rights violations. Two weeks ago, for the first time Swiss banks froze all assets of the military regime. For the first time the ASEAN nations are openly calling for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners. Countries like Singapore and the Philippines have made strong statements showing that ASEAN has lost its patience with the continued lack of promised reforms from the junta. The United Nations Security Counsel has met twice over the past seven months to discuss the horrible situation in Burma, a first for the U.N. Thankfully, the Security Council is currently considering it's first- ever resolution on Burma. We are at a monumental point in the history of Burma. My hope is that all members of the Security Counsel will support this resolution. I urge all of my colleagues to continue to support the people of Burma who have suffered under this brutal military junta.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in commemoration of the 12th anniversary of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) bombing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We cannot forget the 86 individuals who were killed and the hundreds who were wounded on July 14, 1994 in a terrorist bombing of the AMIA building. This largest single incident of terrorism against Jews since World War II was an affront to humanity and the principle of freedom that our country so dearly values. As the home of the largest Jewish community in Latin America, Argentina's Jewish community center was leveled and reduced to rubble along with nearby buildings. Unfortunately, nobody has yet to be convicted for the bombing although many allegations have been made. It is therefore all the more important that we memorialize this day. The heinous assault sent shock waves throughout South America, and the international community. As American citizens we share a common bond with Argentinians as being victims of terror ourselves. September 11 has only reaffirmed that terrorism in any form or any place will not be tolerated. By remembering those whose lives were affected or taken by terror we affirm the value that life and security serves in a functional society. I commend Congressman Tom Lantos and Congresswoman Ileana Ros- Lehtinen for their work in commemorating the victims of the AMIA bombing and the individual lives lost to hatred and terror. The Latino and Latin American Institute of the American Jewish Committee deserves much credit and praise for initiating this important remembrance of an attack that affected the international community.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong opposition to the amendment offered by the gentleman from Georgia Mr. Gingrey. His amendment would deny any Federal funding to negotiate the addition of other countries to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. This amendment would essentially kill the expansion of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, something that I believe is a diplomatic mistake for our country to undertake. The Visa Waiver Program enables nationals of certain countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. The program was established in 1986 with the objective of promoting better relations with U.S. allies, eliminating unnecessary barriers to travel, stimulating the tourism industry, and permitting the Department of State to focus consular resources in other areas. Currently there are 27 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, all strong allies of the United States. Currently South Korea is seeking to become part of the Visa Waiver Program. We have very strong economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties with South Korea and the time has come to expand that relationship further to include the citizens of South Korea under the Visa Waiver Program. While the sponsor of this amendment states the Visa Waiver Program makes the USA less safe, I argue the exact opposite. Not all countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program, and not all travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries are eligible to use the program. Visa Waiver Program travelers are screened prior to admission into the United States, and they are enrolled in the Department of Homeland Security's U.S.-VISIT program. The reason this program is needed is that processing visas in some countries can tie up about 80 percent of American Embassy and Consulate resources. If we extended the Visa Waiver Program to countries that have met the requirements and conditions set by our Department of State, we can free up much needed resources and devote them to other tasks such as: stopping terrorists, combating illegal immigration, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and weapons proliferations. To stop funding the Visa Waiver Program, is wrong and dangerous for Americans. As a Representative from one of the most diverse districts in the United States, I know first hand the contributions that our naturalized citizens can make to a community. I have constituents, that would like their families to legally come, visit and enjoy the United States, but are having a difficult time because the visa application process has become arduous and too time consuming. On the behalf of my constituents, I say that we must expand and continue the Visa Waiver Program. I oppose this amendment and urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this mean spirited Amendment, which would prohibit any federal funds to be used in enforcing bilingual balloting. Let's be crystal clear, we are not talking about undocumented residents. These are citizens of the United States. Many of whom have voted you and me into the office that we hold today. It is apparent that instead of passing meaningful bi-partisan legislation to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act; instead the majority plans to use these little tricks and delaying tactics to disenfranchise ethnic and minority voters. From not counting votes, forced mid-century redistricting and voter intimidation it is clear now more then ever that the Voting Rights Act must be reauthorized as the original drafters of the legislation intended--including bilingual assistance to voters. These people have earned the right to vote just like everyone else in this chamber. I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish a very special New Yorker, Mrs. Ozia Mae Sturgis, a very happy 80th birthday. Mrs. Sturgis commemorated this occasion with family members and friends at a birthday tea at the William Hodson Senior Center. I would like to join them in celebrating her life, her contributions, and her career of community service. The eldest of 12 children, she was born Ozia Mae Hammond on June 21, 1926, in Augusta, Georgia, and moved to New York City in the 1940s, where she met and married Jimmie Sturgis. Mrs. Sturgis and her husband raised seven children in their Bronx home, where she instilled in them the importance of education, a strong work ethic, and the value of family. Their children and seven grandchildren all still reside in the New York Metropolitan Area. She is very active in her church and her community, serving as a past president and current Board Member of the William Hodson Senior Center in the Bronx. Last year, she was the proud recipient of the Center's ``Mother of the Year'' award. On the occasion of Ozia Mae Sturgis's 80th birthday, I am pleased to join her family and friends in wishing her many happy years to come.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thought we were going to start this debate this evening to talk seriously about the problems we are facing in Iraq and begin to talk about our constitutional oversight powers to begin to address this situation. I was wrong. The American people want a change in our Iraq policy, and as their representatives, we have an incredible opportunity to speak to those concerns. But, quite frankly, we won't do that today. As a New Yorker, and as the only Member of this House to lost a relative on 9/11, I am sickened that once again my colleagues on the other side of the aisle continue to try to spin this as an answer to 9/ 11. If we thought that Ann Coulter's criticism of the Jersey girls who fought for an independent inquiry into the 9/11 attacks was bad, today Ms. Coulter pales in comparison to this Republican-led Congress. They still use the victims of 9/11 as a reason for being in Iraq in the first place, when all evidence, all evidence says otherwise. When I hear my colleagues continue to talk and say that Iraq is a stop in the war in terrorism, what happened to the first stop? What happened to Osama bin Laden? Five years later, we have yet to capture or eliminate the person responsible for that action in the first place. But yet we find ourselves in a quagmire in Iraq. I intend to vote ``no'' on this resolution.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the amendment offered by my friend and colleague from Massachusetts, Mr. McGovern. While he means well, and I too strongly support greater funding for the Emergency Refugee and Migration Account, their offset is problematic. There has been a dramatic change in Colombia since President Clinton introduced Plan Colombia with his former colleague, and now Colombian Ambassador to the United States, Andreas Pastrana. And this change can be summed up into one phrase: Safety, Security, and Confidence are back. Colombia is the oldest democracy in South America, and its strongest. In 1990, during some of the darkest hours of this democracy, when their leading Presidential candidate was assassinated on television, and the country was afflicted by almost daily bombing campaigns by the FARC and the drug lords, like Pablo Escobar, their democracy continued to function and they conducted fair and free elections and the country continued to move on. But the 1990s were not good to the people of Colombia. It was during this time, President Bill Clinton working with his Colombian counterpart, President Andreas Pastrana, created Plan Colombia--an investment of U.S. resources, both military and economic, to help restore peace and stability to this democracy. President Bush continued and built upon this successful program with his counterpart, current President Alvaro Uribe, who was just re- elected less then 2 weeks ago to another term overwhelmingly by his citizens in an election all consider to have been fair and free. The election was independently confirmed by the well respected Human Rights Watch. We need to continue to build upon this relationship. President Uribe will be visiting the United States next week, and we should welcome him as a friend of our country--because he is. If one reviewed the committee report from this subcommittee, one would see that it actually starts with a statement highlighting that USAID needs greater emphasis in Latin America, as U.S. influence and interests in the region are waning--cutting funds from our strongest ally and a country in need does not send the right message. In fact, this bill rejiggers our aid appropriations to Colombia, reflecting a nonnalization of relations and the massive progress Colombia has made in the past 5 years. Colombia continues to build strong democratic institutions, while curbing violence and drug trafficking. Plan Colombia has been working, including limiting the drug trade in the U.S. We will hear occasional statistics on the drug war--the detractors will ignore the demand side of the cocaine issue, and solely focus on the supply side On the supply side there have been numerous victories--not as big as hoped but victories none the less. We will not achieve full victory until we curb the demand and that involves an active role in the bane of drugs here in the U.S. We can all rattle off data, but the facts show the path is moving towards progress. Is fumigation the best approach? That can be debated, but not in a way that we strip funding from an ally who is working with the United States of America to end the flow of drugs to the United States of America. Additionally, Colombia has complied with 433 extradition requests from the U.S. since August 1998; no country has cooperated more than Colombia with extradition requests. Some of the biggest drug dealers, and some of the biggest terrorists, including 2 FARC leaders are in jail today in the DC area--too bad we cant say the same thing about Osama bin laden. And Plan Colombia has worked domestically in Colombia as well. In the Department of Public Safety, Colombia provides protection to labor leaders, human rights workers, and journalists. There has been an 80 percent decrease in kidnappings since the initiative of Plan Colombia in 2000; there has also been a 63 percent decrease in terrorist attacks. Last year, one journalist was killed in Colombia and 21 since 2002 according to the State Department. While sad, this death toll has steadily decreased every year since that time. While still too high, the facts prove that the democratically elected government of President Alvaro Uribe is fighting a winning battle against terrorism in Colombia, making his country safer for all of its citizens. In 2000, the Colombian government created the Journalists Protection Program to protect journalists from attack. During 2005, the Direction of Human Rights of the Ministry of Interior and Justice provided direct protection to 113 journalists. The situation in Colombia for journalists has vastly improved over the past 4 years. This success is owed both to the security initiatives implemented by their democratically elected President, as well as the support provided by the United States under Plan Colombia. Plan Colombia has been a foreign policy success for the United States of America and a domestic security success for Colombia. Started by President Clinton and continued by President Bush, Plan Colombia has made measurable progress in Colombia's security, as seen through decreases in violence, murders and kidnappings as well as the eradication of drug crops. The streets of Colombia are safer--some will argue that the victories achieved by Plan Colombia have only effected the cities so far--but that's where 75 percent of the people live--and they are living safer, better lives today. It isn't a complete victory, I agree, but we cannot cut Colombia, our ally, off at the knees as they approach victory. I urge a ``no'' vote on the McGovern amendment.

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. I thank the gentleman for his clarification and for his honesty.

Mr. CROWLEY. If I can, I just have one last question. In reference to the work that is being engaged on right now on developing the language for the resolution on Iraq, is that being done in a bipartisan way? Are ranking members on those committees also participating in that?

Mr. CROWLEY

Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Chairman, I thank my friend from Arizona (Mr. Kolbe) for withdrawing the point and allowing for this discussion. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate that gentlewoman from Florida has the right to bring this amendment to the floor. But what I am concerned about is possibly, and I do not know enough about the gentlewoman's involvement in the peace process as it pertains to Northern Ireland. And, yes, it is quite true that the Republic of Ireland is having an incredibly strong economy and it is the Celtic Tiger, it is doing remarkably well. But this is not about the south of Ireland, or the Republic of Ireland, this is about the Northern Irish peace process. As you so point out, created in 1986, under the Irish Peace Agreement, the IFI has been a fund that has helped develop businesses within Northern Ireland and attract business to Northern Ireland that is supported by both Unionists and Nationalists in the north of Ireland. Because Ireland is doing well, it does not mean that all parts of Ireland are doing well. In particular, in those areas where the communities are interfaced, amongst the Protestant and Catholics, Nationalists and Unionists communities where there is still tremendous strife, a lack of opportunity for growth, for young people within the north of Ireland. And symbolically this is America's involvement in this peace process, one of the most successful peace processes in modern history. This is still an ongoing process, though. The government has not devolved back to the north of Ireland. People are not involved in a real Democratic society there. To withdrew this money with the understanding that this money is in a phase-out program right now, I think is unfair. And to point to one particular aspect of this as the reason or the cause to do that, the World Toilet Summit, well, quite frankly, I think are people who may be interested in purchasing toilets, the creation of toilets. If that is something that is drawing tourism and is drawing industry to the north of Ireland, who are we to criticize? So be it. Using it as a catch phrase, I think is unfortunate, because it trivializes what has been taking place over the last decade in both Republican and Democratic administrations, and that is the advancement of opportunities for peace in the north of Ireland. So with that, I am happy that the gentlewoman is going to withdraw this amendment. I hope that she learns more about even the toilet summit. I am not so sure she is all that familiar with that. I know I am not. Nor do I have the authority to speak on it. But I am glad that she is going to withdraw this, and I hope in the future that we have the opportunity for more discussion prior to such amendments coming to the floor. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.