Senator Flanagan Calls For Thorough Investigation Of The United Arab Emirates Port Takeover

Senator John J. Flanagan (2nd Senate District), a member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, has written to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff to express his displeasure regarding the proposed takeover of the port of New York.

Senator Flanagan, in a letter to Chertoff, requested that the federal government take a more deliberative approach to the potentially dangerous situation.

"This is a situation that must be diligently and exhaustively examined before any approval is given. The need to protect the citizens of the country and of this state should be the primary focus of any investigation," stated Senator Flanagan. "The time it will take to ensure safety is surely worth the peace of mind it will deliver to the men and women of our state."

The potential deal involving Dubai Ports World would include six ports in the United States including both the port of New York and the port in New Jersey.

TEXT OF THE LETTER TO HOMELAND SECURITY SECRETARY MICHAEL CHERTOFF

February 21, 2006

Honorable Michael Chertoff
The Secretary of Homeland Security
United States Department of Homeland Security
Washington, D.C. 20258

Dear Mr. Secretary:

As a member of the New York State Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, I respectfully request that the future operational control of six United States ports, including New York, be examined in a more deliberative manner. The approval of the Dubai Ports World deal is potentially dangerous for the citizens of New York State and warrants further consideration.

The previous history of the United Arab Emirates and the clear and present danger of terrorism on our shores demonstrates the need for a more thorough review and reconsideration of our existing policies to ensure the safety of our nation. Conversely, there does not seem to be any reason for the rapid approval process that seems to have transpired.

At a time when the administration is waging the war on terror in every possible venue, the nation must continue to concentrate on ensuring safety at home. The need to protect our borders and our ports has never been greater and I urge the administration to reexamine this decision.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and anticipate your response.

Respectfully,

John J. Flanagan
New York State Senator
2nd Senate District