|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, January 31, 2005
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer released the following statement today calling on the International Organization of Migration (IOM), who organized the election outside of Iraq, to reimburse Prince George’s County for the security costs the County incurred when securing the Ramada Inn in New Carrollton during the three-day out-of-country Iraqi election.
“On Friday, I had the opportunity to visit the out-of-country voting station in New Carrollton, and the experience of watching many of these Iraqis cast their votes freely for the very first time in their lives. It was as moving as it was historic. And it was a poignant reminder to all of us that our rights, while God-given, must never be taken for granted.
“While touring the polling site with the IOM, I was impressed by the extensive and comprehensive security boundary surrounding the Ramada Inn by a combination of state and local law enforcement agencies. However, I am concerned that the costs to ensure that this polling place was safe and secure will be assumed entirely by our local government and law enforcement agencies.
“While visiting Iraq in December to assess the ongoing preparations for this election, I was informed that the IOM would receive a $92 million contract to coordinate the vote abroad. This contract should have been used to cover the costs to secure the voting places across the United States, including the site in New Carrollton.
“I urge the IOM to reimburse Prince George’s County for the costs they incurred to ensure that this historic event could take place and I intend to work with the County to make sure they receive reimbursement.”
# # #
|
|
