Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the University of Florida men's basketball team on winning the 2006 NCAA national championship.

None of college basketball's so-called experts picked the University of Florida to do much, if anything, this season. In fact, they were not even ranked in the preseason polls. This was to be a rebuilding year for the Gators. They lost three prolific scorers to the NBA last season and were considered too young and inexperienced to play with most of the Southeastern Conference, let alone the elite teams in the NCAA tournament.

However, Coach Billy Donovan and his unwavering team knew differently. Through hard work, drive, discipline, and determination, the Gators soon made their presence felt. Led by four sophomores and one junior, they began their historic season with a 17-game winning streak, the longest in Florida basketball history. And they concluded their title run by winning their last 11 games, including an SEC tournament championship, an unbelievable run through the Minneapolis region, and a dominating performance in the Final Four.

In the championship game, the Gators faced a very talented UCLA team, heralded for their defense and rich with basketball tradition. But on this night, Florida wrote the next and best chapter of their basketball tradition. Poised and focused, the Gators took the court where their balanced offensive attack swamped

UCLA's defense. Furthermore, the Gators quickly demonstrated that their defense was the more domineering on the court, limiting their opponents' scoring options.

I want to recognize Coach Donovan and his assistant coaches, who have helped lead the Gators to national prominence. This is Coach Donovan's second title game appearance with UF, and with this victory, he becomes the second youngest head coach to win a national championship. I also would like to acknowledge the Gators' starters. Joakim Noah, the Final Four's Most Outstanding Player, led the Gators with 16 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and six blocked shots, a title game record. Taurean Green ran the point nearly to perfection, refusing to allow UCLA's pressure to lead to turnovers. Corey Brewer had great offensive statistics; however, it was his shut-down defense which held UCLA's leading scorer scoreless for most of the game. Al Horford helped control the interior and defend UF's basket, and Lee Humphrey's barrage of three-point jump shots helped put the game out of reach. Additionally, I would like to congratulate the Gators' only senior, Adrian Moss, who finished his college career with a sensational game, posting nine points and six rebounds in only ten minutes of play.

I also want to applaud the rest of the Gator team: Chris Richard, Walter Hodge, David Huertas, Garrett Tyler, Jimmie Sutton, Jack Berry, Brett Swanson, and everyone involved with the Men's basketball program. They are all to be commended for their contributions to the Gators' success.

This young team showed their maturity by playing unselfish basketball. We have seen the results when players are out for the greater good of the team, rather than playing for themselves. This Florida squad epitomizes that philosophy. They shared the ball, always looking for an open teammate rather than seeking personal glory.

I'm tremendously proud of these young men and honored to be an alumnus. It truly is great to be a Florida Gator!

Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to a fallen soldier from the Ninth Congressional District of Florida. Army Sergeant Michael D. Rowe, from New Port Richey, Florida, was killed by a roadside bomb in Rutbah, Iraq. His death came just before his 24th birthday.

Michael's decision to join the military demonstrates his dedication and service to this nation. Following high school, our young people have many opportunities and wide open doors to pursue their dreams. Michael chose the path of the Army because he believed that it was his honor and duty to serve his nation and protect our freedom. In fact, he had told his mother that the Army would be his career and had re- enlisted for another four years of service shortly before he died. He did not choose this path because he thought that he would one day become a war hero or that this career would provide him a lucrative and extravagant life.

I know it has been a very hard and difficult time for Michael's family and friends, especially since Michael's wife, Rebecca, is expecting their first child in July. I hope they know that the nation thanks him for his service and we appreciate the sacrifices they had to make for us as well.

Let freedom ring where all can hear it and let Sergeant Michael Rowe's memory be eternal.

Today I proudly rise to celebrate Greek Independence Day and the strong ties that bind the nations of Greece and the United States.

One hundred and eighty-five years ago, the people of Greece began a journey that would mark the symbolic birth of democracy in a land where those principles to human dignity were first espoused. This past Saturday, March 25, marked the 185th anniversary of the Greek struggle for independence. It was an historic day for all people who treasure freedom.

In 1821, after four centuries of Ottoman rule, Greeks rose up in arms, fought valiantly and finally achieved a dream centuries old, freedom from Turkish oppression. In setting their blood for liberty and winning their freedom, Greeks showed the world their deep and abiding commitment to democracy. This celebration also marks the beginning of one of America's most valued and rewarding friendships.

The flag of revolt was blessed by Bishop Germanos of Paleion Patron at the monastery of Aghia Lavra, and for 7 years, a handful of rebels in fierce fighting were able to contain the combined forces of the Sultan's Ottoman Empire. The confrontations at Valtetis, Dervenaia, as well as Missolognhi, where Lord Byron fought and died, rank among the most glorious and important pages of Greek history.

The exploits and victories of the Greek navy under Miaoulis, Kanaris, and Sachtouris, inspired the people of Europe, who finally brought pressure upon their governments to intervene in the fighting and compel the Sultan to recognize Greek independence.

On October 20, 1827, at the battle of Navarino, the Turkish fleet was finally defeated by the British, French and Russian navies which had joined in the effort, and by September 14, after many centuries of foreign rule, freedom for the Greeks was regained by the Treaty of Adrianople of 1829 and, later, by the London Protocol of 1830.

I commemorate Greek Independence Day, Mr. Speaker, each year for the same reasons we celebrate our Fourth of July. It proved that a united people, through sheer will and perseverance, can prevail against tyranny. Both our nations share an illustrious history in defense of this cherished ideal. Both countries have shared a common commitment to the principles of equality and freedom, and in many ways, the American experiment might not have been possible without the Greek experience. Indeed, as Thomas Jefferson noted, ``To the ancient Greeks we are all indebted for the light which led ourselves, American colonists, out of Gothic darkness.''

The ancient Greeks created the very notion of democracy, in which the ultimate power to govern was vested in the people. As Aristotle said, ``If liberty and equality, as is thought by some, are chiefly to be found in democracy, they will be attained when all persons alike share in the government to the utmost.''

It was this concept, Mr. Speaker, that the Founding Fathers of the United States of America drew heavily upon in forming our representative government.

Constitutionally, democracy has made the American way of life possible. For that contribution alone, we owe a heavy debt to the Greek people, but the contribution of democracy was not the only contribution made by Greek patriots to American society.

The ancient Greeks contributed a great deal both to our cultural heritage, as well as to European culture, in the areas of art, philosophy, science and law. In the preface to his poem ``Hellas,'' poet Percy Shelly wrote, ``Our laws, our literature, our religion, our arts have their roots in Greece.''

Greece has also given another gift to America. Nearly 1 million Greeks came to America's shores and enriched this great country of ours. Greek Americans have followed the rich tradition of their ancestors. They have made their mark in many professions, including medicine, science, law and business, among others. Some of our most illustrious citizens claim Greek ancestry. The welfare and progress of the Greek community, both here and abroad, is of great importance to all of us.

Greek independence was a model for our new Nation and continues to be an inspiration for all those living in the darkness of oppression. Throughout history, Greece has represented an ideal in man's search for liberty. The principles of Greek democracy represent the greatest contribution a nation has ever made to society.

The democratic tradition that began in Greece and continues in the American experience is taking root in an increasing number of countries, and the implications for world peace, while still very uncertain, are nevertheless the most promising they have been in decades. Democracy and freedom are the guiding beliefs that give hope to millions around the world and fuel the democratic revolution that is today sweeping the planet.

Mr. Speaker, remembering the sacrifice of the brave Greeks who gave their lives for liberty helps us all realize how important it is to be an active participant in our own democracy, and that is why we honor those who secured independence for Greece so many years ago.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Dana Reeve, an extraordinary woman whose kindness and generosity touched so many, including me.

Dana Reeve was many things to many people. She was a daughter, a sister, a wife, and a mother. She was an accomplished singer, actress, author, and motivational speaker. She was a determined advocate and a passionate fighter for causes in which she believed. She was, above all, a woman whose grace and courage inspired and comforted those in need.

I met Dana several years ago when I began working with her late husband, Christopher, on legislation I have introduced to intensify and coordinate federal research into paralysis. My bill, the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act, bears her late husband's name because they both so impressed me with their positive spirit and tireless determination to overcome challenges that would seem insurmountable to most. Dana and Christopher both accomplished much in their all too brief time here. While many are probably more familiar with Christopher's life and his courageous fight to improve the lives of people with paralysis than they are with Dana's life and legacy, she was quite remarkable in her own right.

Dana was a founding board member of the Christopher Reeve Foundation and became its chair after her husband's death. She also established the Foundation's Quality of Life grants program, which has awarded more than $8 million to support efforts to improve the lives of people with paralysis, and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center, which promotes the health and well-being of people living with paralysis and their families by providing comprehensive information resources and referral services. The Foundation itself has helped raise more than $46 million for neuroscience research.

Mr. Speaker, it is always tragic when a loved one leaves this earthly life, especially when they had so much life yet to lead. I hope everyone grieving Dana's loss will remember that she accomplished much and touched the lives of millions whose lives are better for her work here. I am certain that she and Christopher are looking down on us urging us all to go forward, as their Foundation's motto proclaims, and carry on the wonderful work they started. May God bless Christopher and Dana Reeve and may He continue to watch over those here who so loved them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carolyn Meeker, a community champion whose activism has been missed by those in the small community for which she once fought.

Carolyn Meeker was a community treasure in the tiny town of Lutz, located in my congressional district. A native New Yorker, she moved to Lutz in the mid-1960s and quickly became immersed in issues affecting her and her neighbors. She led the charge against suburban sprawl and excessive development. She successfully restricted zoning laws and helped impose limitations on public well field pumping.

Mrs. Meeker became a regular at Hillsborough County Commission meetings. She firmly, but politely, shared her well-reasoned arguments with commissioners, many of whom favored that which she opposed. Her arguments often carried the day because, as a long-time friend once noted, she let facts, not emotion, guide her.

She eventually ran for the Commission herself, narrowly losing the election but nonetheless continuing her crusade to protect the rural lifestyle which so many in Lutz love. She subsequently served on many County-appointed boards working for better growth management. She also headed the Lutz Civic Association. She died in 2003 after a determined fight against cancer.

Mr. Speaker, Carolyn Meeker was a shining example of what community service and citizenship is all about. Her life reminds me that we all share a responsibility to be civic-minded and to fight for that in which we believe. Many of my constituents are better off because she did.

Mr. Speaker, I missed rollcall votes numbered 5, 6 and 7. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall votes 5 and 6 and ``nay'' on roll callvote 7.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dora Bakoyannis, Mayor of Athens, Greece, who was chosen to receive the 2005 World Mayor Award. This recognition is part of the World Mayor Project, which aims to bring greater attention to mayors who have well served their own communities as well as other national and international cities.

The World Mayor Project was launched in January of 2004 by City Mayors, an internet based platform designed to raise awareness about issues facing the world's cities. City Mayors was created by a group of economists and journalists from Europe, the Americas and Asia in April of 2003. From January to October of 2005, over 87,000 people worldwide voted in the annual internet based. World Mayor contest.

After being elected in 2003, Mayor Bakoyannis had the great challenge of preparing the historic city of Athens to host the 2004 summer Olympic Games. Due to her outstanding leadership, Athens rose magnificently to the challenge and demonstrated the pride and honor that comes with hosting the biggest sporting event in the world.

Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing Dora Bakoyannis whose work has not only brought physical transformation to Athens, but also a renewed sense of national pride for her citizens which reflects true leadership. We wish her continued success as she works to enhance the quality of life for all Athenians.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Tatiana Horunowycz Vondersaar and Russian Heritage on the occasion of the 10th Annual Russian Heritage New Years Celebration, January 15, 2006. Mrs. Vondersaar's contributions to the Russian community have touched countless lives. It is a pleasure to pay tribute to this illustrious community leader and, of course, to all Americans of Russian heritage who have offered so much to our great Nation.

There is no doubt that America has become great because the American people are great. Coming from all parts of the globe and from humble beginnings, the average American is a priceless gift to our society and world. Without the common citizen, America would not have assumed the uncommon role she enjoys among the nations of the earth. Among these citizens are the proud and humble people of Russian heritage who are precious gems in the American mosaic.

I can think of no better example of this unique heritage than Tatiana Horunowycz Vondersaar, who has tirelessly promoted Russian heritage among the citizens of the great State of Florida. Mrs. Vondersaar is a former president and board member of the Russian Heritage located in St. Petersburg, FL. The Russian Heritage was established to preserve and promote Russian heritage, culture and educational programs among family, friends and neighbors.

Volunteering her time and talents to better the lives of others, Mrs. Vodersaar has been active on numerous committees and boards. She represented the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, SPIFFs, promoting Russian heritage and culture. Mrs. Vondersaar has worked with the Police Athletic League and educated students about the influence of Russian customs and traditions. She has lectured at St. Petersburg College and volunteered her time at the Salvador Dali Museum. Mrs. Vondersaar has served as a translator for Russian immigrants for the public defender's office, assisted the elderly, and participated as an active and leading member at St. Andrew's Russian Orthodox Church. She also has served as treasurer of the Association of Russian Cadets, and board member of the Russian American Club.

Mrs. Vondersaar and her husband Lee, a courageous veteran of World War II, are the proud parents of 6 children, 14 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

I want to commend Russian Heritage and its President Bill Parsons for their leadership in raising awareness of the rich contributions of Russian Americans to the United States. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring all Americans of Russian descent and particularly Tatiana Horunowycz Vondersaar, whose spirit and dedication serve as a model of commitment to us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise proudly to celebrate ``oxi'' day. The historical significance of this day and what it meant to the outcome of World War II cannot be overstated. The outcome of a decision made on a day in 1940, had a profound impact on the conducting of the war by Nazi Germany. We're talking about a stand made by a small, battered and courageous nation, namely Greece, against the larger, more powerful aggressors Italy and Germany.

By October of 1940, World War II had begun, and the Nazi war machine was already in high gear. Along with Hitler's ally, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, the German and Italian forces were threatening the whole of Europe. European nations were bowing to tyranny and destruction as the Germans and the Italians marched through Europe.

Great Britain endured Germany's aerial bombardment, forcing Hitler to seek another avenue to subdue the British. Hitler intended to eliminate British operations in the Mediterranean in order to weaken their ability to deter German advances.

To achieve this, Hitler needed the Axis powers to strike at British forces in Greece. By conquering Greece, Hitler would gain access to an important connecting link with Italian bases in the Dodecanese islands. This would give the Italians a strangle hold on British positions in Egypt, where British forces were already facing attack from the Italian army in north Africa. The British considered the defense of Egypt vital to allied positions in the oil rich Middle East.

On October 28, 1940, the Italian Ambassador in Athens presented an insulting ultimatum to Greek Prime Minister Metaxas, demanding the unconditional surrender of Greece or Italy would declare war and invade Greece. Mussolini had given the Greek Prime Minister Metaxas three hours to reply.

Prime Minister Metaxas responded with the now historic word ``oxi,'' which means ``no'' in Greek. His statement embodied the true spirit of the Greek people. His words of defiance echoed the same devotion and love of country that Greek patriots exhibited during their war of independence against the Ottoman empire when they shouted the defiant words ``liberty or death.'' Prime Minister Metaxas'' actions marked the beginning of one of the world's most heroic efforts against tyranny and oppression. Italy then invaded.

It is important to note that in addition to Greece having a population seven times smaller than Italy, the disparity in their armed forces was even greater: Italy had close to ten times the firepower of Greece in its army and navy and seven times the troops. Italy's large air force had total air superiority since Greece had a very small defensive air force. However, despite their lack of equipment, the Greek army proved to be well-trained and resourceful. Within a week of the invasion, it was clear that Italian forces were suffering serious setbacks despite having control of the air and fielding superior armored vehicles.

On November 14th, the Greek army launched a counter-offensive and quickly drove the Italian forces back into Albania. By the next month, the Greeks had captured the town of Pogradec in eastern Albania. The fighting continued for a few more months . . . it was clear that the Greeks were not going to stand for defeat. In a last ditch effort to bring the war to a close before the Italians would be forced to ask Hitler to intervene, they launched another assault on March 12, 1941. After six days of fighting, the Italians had made only insignificant gains, and it became clear that German intervention was necessary.

On April 6, 1941, Hitler ordered the German invasion of Greece. It took the Germans five weeks to finally end the conflict. This delay proved to be critical to the outcome of the war. Italy's inability to capture Greece enabled the British to win major victories against Mussolini's forces in north Africa. This solidified British positions in the region as well as in Cyprus. In addition, it contributed to the failure of the German Barbarossa campaign to conquer Russia.

Due to Mussolini's humiliating defeat by the Greeks in Albania and Greece, Hitler was compelled to capture the Balkans, mainly Yugoslavia and Greece, thus, delaying his Barbarossa plan to invade and capture the Soviet Union before the winter of 1941. The Greek resistance, both in Albania, and in the other famous battle in Crete, altered, favorably for the allies, his Barbarossa time table by at least six months.

Perhaps most importantly, the Germans never gained the advantage against the British. Although Germany had conquered much of Europe, its inability to decimate British and Russian forces early in the war would eventually prove to be fatal. Thanks to the heroic Greek resistance and their countless sacrifices, the war tide had been permanently changed for Hitler due to the delay of this critical time table.

Nearly one million Hellenes died during that time. That was 14 percent of the population in 1940. That is equivalent to losing 39 million people in this country today in the case of a war to defend our country.

The entire Western world, discouraged and fearful of the Axis powers and the growing ugly war, took hope from these incredible victories. British Prime Minister Winston Churchill said of the Greeks: ``Today we say that Greeks fight like heroes, from now on we will say that heroes fight like Greeks.''

Mr. Speaker, ``oxi'' day is an inspiration to all those who cherish democracy and freedom. It marks defiance against terrible odds. As an American of Greek descent, I am proud to honor the memory of those brave patriots who fought for freedom for themselves and ultimately for all the free world on this important day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great sorrow to mourn the loss of one of Pasco County's finest citizens and public servants, Dr. John Long. While on a hunting trip with his wife Marsha in Montana, John unexpectedly passed away from an apparent heart attack on October 26. He was 59 years old.

Born in Wauchula, Florida, John dedicated his life to serving the residents of Pasco County and improving the quality of education that its students received. His passion and reputation would lead him to serve as a state representative and eventually to be appointed as the County's Superintendent of Schools, a position he held until his retirement last year.

John's career in public service began shortly after he completed his masters degree and doctorate in education at the University of South Florida. John seized the opportunity to work for the Pasco County School District and during heightened tension in the District in 1976, he was hired as the County's Director of Personnel. Known as a problem- solver, John quickly garnered respect and trust from the teacher's union and ironed out their labor grievances. His ability to compromise and find the middle ground would follow him throughout his career.

In 1986, John ran successfully for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives. He quickly rose to prominence within the Democratic Party and was poised to become the Speaker of the Florida House. However, another institution took precedence: his family. John retired from state politics to spend more time at home with Marsha and his two daughters, Jennifer and Jessica. Soon after stepping down, the late Governor Lawton Chiles appointed John as Pasco County Schools Superintendent in 1995.

After winning a second term in 2000, John was named Florida's Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents, a distinction he greatly cherished. John also facilitated the enactment of the Penny for Pasco program in March 2004, which he considered one of his proudest accomplishments.

Mr. Speaker, too often in this extremely partisan business, we lose sight of the things that really matter. John looked past party politics. He placed his family ahead of his promising political career. He was a breath of fresh air in an occupation that can suffocate integrity. I am truly saddened by the loss of John, and my thoughts and prayers are with the Long family. May God bless them as they remember this great man.

Mr. Speaker, I missed the recorded vote for H. Res. 360, which commemorates the 60th anniversary of V-J Day and the end of World War II in the Pacific. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote 454.

Mr. Speaker, I missed the recorded vote for S.J. Res. 19, which calls upon the President to issue a proclamation recognizing the 30th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote 455.

Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

In addition, the chairman has stated in the past that each individual State should have the ability to control its own waters, and the decision to drill or take an inventory should rest with the State legislature and the Governor. Can the gentleman assure us that he will work with us to provide States with that ability?

We know the chairman is a man of his word.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time; and I, too, obviously, support S. 544, which is the exact Senate counterpart to H.R. 3205, the legislation on which I and so many others have worked for several years to reduce medical errors and save lives.

The landmark 1999 Institute of Medicine report entitled ``To Err is Human,'' found that as many as 98,000 people die each year from preventable medical errors. The IOM report noted these errors may cost taxpayers as much as $29 billion each year, in addition to the incalculable pain and suffering experienced by those who lose loved ones as a result of them.

The Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act will implement many of the IOM's recommendations for reducing medical errors. This legislation would establish a framework within which providers can voluntarily report medical errors to patient safety organizations, which in turn would analyze the data and recommend steps providers could take to prevent such errors from occurring in the future.

These patient safety organizations will be empowered to compile reports on errors and near-misses, determine the causes of these errors or near-errors, identify the changes that need to be made to the health care delivery system to prevent these errors in the future, and implement needed changes. Their work will be invaluable in identifying national trends on medical errors and recommending how to prevent them.

The legislation encourages providers to share information about medical mistakes by preventing the information that they have created specifically to report to patient safety organizations from being used against them. The bill would preclude this information, termed patient safety work product, from being used against providers in civil and administrative proceedings, disclosed pursuant to Freedom of Information Act requests, or used to carry out adverse personnel actions.

The bill does not shield other information outside this patient safety work product from use in court cases. I believe it strikes an appropriate balance between encouraging the reporting of valuable information, which will be used to save lives, and safeguarding the ability of individuals to access necessary information to seek judicial redress when appropriate.

I believe that Congress must pass the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act to encourage the voluntary reporting of information on medical errors. Doing so will help create a culture of awareness to expose and address the systemic causes of medical errors instead of continuing the culture of blame which hides and perpetuates them.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank several individuals: Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Barton); and the chairman of the Subcommittee on Health, the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Deal). They have shared my commitment to making medical errors as rare as possible and minimizing the hurt they cause their families, as have the ranking member, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Dingell), and the subcommittee ranking member, the

gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Brown). This indeed has been a true bipartisan effort.

I also want to thank members of the staff, though the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Deal) already has done so: Nandan Kenkermath and Melissa Bartlett, as well as chief counsel Chuck Clapton and health policy coordinator Brandon Clark.

Mr. Speaker, I also want to thank Jeanne Haggerty, Jeremy Allen, and Steve Tilton, several former members of my staff, whose previous work on this legislation laid the groundwork for its enactment here today. All of these individuals, all should be proud their contributions to this legislation will ultimately save the lives of many they will never know.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all our colleagues to support the Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise again today, as I have for more than 2 decades, to voice intense objection to the illegal occupation of Cyprus by Turkish troops and to declare my grave concern for the future of the island. The Turkish incursion into Cyprus, 30-plus years ago, has rendered a legacy of internal division, and should worry those in this Chamber who cherish freedom and espouse the virtues of democracy.

In July 1974, Turkish troops invaded and captured the northern part of Cyprus, seizing more than a third of the island. The Turkish strategy included ethnic cleansing. Not only did the Turks expel 200,000 Greek-Cypriots from their homes, but Turkish troops were also responsible for the systematic killing of 5,000 innocent civilians. In the process, Turkey installed 40,000 military personnel on Cyprus. Today, these troops, in conjunction with United Nations (U.N.) peacekeeping forces, make the small, once peaceful island of Cyprus one of the most militarized areas in the world. Well over a quarter of a century later, approximately 1,500 Greek-Cypriots remain missing, including four Americans.

The Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot communities are separated by a 113-mile barbed wire fence, called the Green Line. Until 2003, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), a government formally recognized only by Turkey, prohibited Greek-Cypriots from freely crossing the Green Line to visit the towns and communities of their families. Controlling 37 percent of the island, Turkey's military occupation has had severe consequences, most notably the dislocation of the Greek-Cypriot population and the resulting refugees.

More than thirty years later, despite efforts by G-8 countries and the U.N. generally, the forced separation of these two communities persists. The U.N., with the explicit support of the United States, has sponsored several rounds of proximity talks between the Greek-Cypriots in the South and the Turkish-controlled north.

The U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan took a lead role in brokering a reunification proposal. On several occasions, my colleagues and I strongly voiced our serious concerns with the Annan plan through letters, meetings, and floor statements. We warned that the plan, as written, was not viable and did not assuage the Greek-Cypriots' security fears. Without a doubt, greater efforts should have been made to address these legitimate security concerns.

By ignoring these concerns, Greek-Cypriot voters were put in the adverse position of having to oppose the plan. On April 24, 2004, they made clear that the suggested settlement failed because it did not provide certain guarantees, nor did it ensure complete compliance by Turkey once the plan was implemented. Had their concerns been addressed, I have no doubt that the Annan plan would have received an overwhelming positive vote.

The Annan plan did not include a thorough removal of foreign troops from Cyprus. Although previous versions of the Annan plan called for the complete withdrawal of Greek and Turkish forces once Turkey joined the European Union, the final version of the Annan plan provided for an indefinite presence of Turkish troops in Cyprus. According to the plan, the number of troops would gradually decrease to 650 over a period of fourteen years.

The plan also provided for the continuation of the Treaty of Guarantee, maintaining the guarantor powers (Turkey, Greece, and the United Kingdom) the right to unilaterally intervene in order to preserve the ``constitutional order'' of the United Cyprus Republic and its constituent states. The Annan plan failed to clarify that this treaty would not authorize military intervention.

This is a critical point, because Turkey insist that it continues to have the right to intervene militarily in Cyprus.

Additionally, the Annan plan did not provide for a property recovery system that would recognize the rights and interests of displaced Greek-Cypriots, nor did it include a satisfactory property compensation system. Specifically, the plan allowed for one-third restitution and two-thirds compensation for Greek-Cypriots who would lose the use of their northern properties. The Federal Government of Cyprus would be responsible for disbursing the restitutive funds. Nine-tenths of the Federal State's resources, however, derive from Greek-Cypriots. Therefore, the plan essentially called for Greek-Cypriots to pay for the loss of their property.

In addition, the plan required constituent states to pay the compensation for property transfers. This meant that Greek-Cypriot refugees would have to request compensation from the Greek-Cypriot Constituent State. Again, Greek-Cypriot taxpayers, who were the victims of the invasion, would be paying for their own losses.

The Annan plan failed to institute policies that could have engendered cohesion between the two communities. The plan failed to provide a viable government free of built-in deadlocks and voting restrictions, establishing instead a system based on permanent ethnic division and the denial of democratic rights to a segment of the population. The plan ignored the right of all Cypriots to buy property and to live wherever they choose without being limited by ethnic quotas. Furthermore, the plan set complicated and restrictive provisions regarding the right of Greek-Cypriot refugees to return to their homes in the north. In fact, the plan mandated that no more than 33.3 percent of the TRNC population could be Greek-Cypriot. This restriction would have been permanent. In addition, under the plan, Greek-Cypriots permanently living in the TRNC and possessing its internal citizenship status would not have the right to participate in elections for its 24 representatives in the federal Senate.

Since the vote on the referenda, Greek-Cypriots have been criticized for allegedly rejecting peace and the ``only chance'' for reunification. Many people--including the Greek-Cypriots themselves-- regret that the presented plan did not allow both communities to respond positively. Criticism and anger, however, will only further divide the island precisely when the Cypriot people need the support of the international community to continue on the path toward lasting peace.

Greek-Cypriots should not be blamed for voting against a plan that they believed did not

meet the interests of their country and their futures. It is one thing for others to comment on the terms and conditions for settlement, but it is the Cypriots who must live with whatever plan is adopted.

The Government of Cyprus continues to emphasize that it remains committed to reunify Cyprus as a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with democratic and human rights for all Cypriots. The Cypriot Government has announced a series of measures aimed at assisting those Turkish Cypriots residing under the control of the occupying Turkish army. The package included a wide range of political, social, humanitarian, educational and economic measures that would enhance the Turkish- Cypriots' ability to enjoy many of the benefits that the Republic of Cyprus offers to its citizens--including benefits which result from its European Union membership. Far beyond a merely symbolic gesture, the package is a substantive program to integrate the Turkish-Cypriot community into the larger Cypriot society.

The Republic of Cyprus and Greek-Cypriots have provided the Turkish- Cypriot community more than $700 million dollars in aid. In the past two years, the government of Cyprus has paid more than $43 million dollars in social insurance pensions to Turkish-Cypriots, and Turkish- Cypriots working outside the Green Line made $7 million dollars in wages last year. Since April 2003, more than 24,000 Turkish-Cypriots have received free treatment in hospitals and medical centers inside the Republic of Cyprus, the combined cost of which totals more than $9 million dollars.

Since the invasion more than three decades ago, Turkish occupied areas have received free electricity from the Cyprus Electricity Authority at a cost of nearly $343 million dollars. Together, more than 150,000 birth certificates, identity cards and passports have been provided to Turkish-Cypriots by the Republic of Cyprus, so that Turkish-Cypriots could travel and acquire work more efficiently. The Republic of Cyprus has begun a program where it pays the full tuition fees of Turkish-Cypriot pupils in secondary education private schools in the government controlled areas. The program to date has promised more than 5.4 million in tuition fees, and the program added five times as many students this year than it did in its first year, 2003.

The occupying Turkish regime partially relaxed restrictions that limited travel across the Green Line. Since then, there have been more than five million incident-free border crossings by Turkish and Greek Cypriots to visit areas and homes that were inaccessible to them for over 30 years. As a result, Greek-Cypriots have infused more than $57 million dollars into the impoverished, Turkish-occupied economy in the North. It isn't clear whether opening the border was just a tactic to ease frustrations, or a sign that Turkey has had a fundamental change of heart. Nevertheless, it has produced rare displays of human kinship, exchanges of flowers and pastries, and emotional visits to homes abandoned in the mid-1970s.

Still, neither the Government's incomplete, albeit well-intentioned, benefit package for Turkish-Cypriots, nor the limited lifting of restrictions by Turkey's occupying regime, substitutes for a comprehensive resolution to end Cyprus' divide. I urge the Bush Administration, the United Nations the European Union, and this honorable body to respect the democratic decision of the Cypriot people, to remain engaged in efforts to resolve the Cyprus problem, and to work toward a fair and lasting reunification of Cyprus.

As Cyprus works toward reunification it is imperative that leaders and diplomats from the United States and other nations respect and observe Cypriot law and international law in their dealings with Cyprus. Recently, Members of Congress traveled directly into the northern airport of Cyprus in Tymbou. Direct flights into occupied Cyprus are inconsistent with principles of international law and in tension with domestic law of the United States. In particular, it is indisputable that international law mandates that flights cannot enter a country's airspace without the consent of the sovereign government. Indeed, the Convention on International Civil Aviation, signed in Chicago on December 7, 1944, provides that ``the contracting States recognize that every State has complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above its territory.'' The Republic of Cyprus' sovereignty over the entire territory of Cyprus has been recognized and reaffirmed by numerous U.N. Security Council Resolutions, as well as long-standing U.S. policy.

Section 620C of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, amended in 1979, separately establishes that the United States' foreign policy towards Cyprus is to support the withdrawal of all Turkish forces from Cyprus and the reunification of the island. Any government or congressional trip will not only derail and discourage reunification efforts, but to the contrary, will be exploited as an implicit recognition of the so- called ``Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus'' by the United States, thus further reinforcing the island's division.

It is my understanding that at no time has the Republic of Cyprus authorized flights into the illegal airports situated in the occupied area of Cyprus. Moreover, flights into these airports are not necessary; the Republic of Cyprus encourages visits to the occupied area in a manner that does not create insurmountable legal issues and reinforce the existing division of the island.

What is surprising and disappointing is that our own State Department encouraged these Members to fly directly to the airport in the TRNC under the guise of easing the isolation of Turkish-Cypriots. The State Department has authorized U.S. government personnel to travel directly to northern Cyprus, but they require that they must use their tourist passports. I don't understand why they are not instructed to use their official passports since they are visiting the TRNC on official business. I believe that if the legality of direct travel to TRNC were not in dispute, requiring U.S. government personnel to use their tourist passports would be pointless.

The State Department maintains that this policy is consistent with U.S. and international law and that neither U.S. nor international law prohibits U.S. citizens from traveling directly to the TRNC. While the State Department is technically correct that nothing precludes U.S. leaders, diplomats, staff, or citizens from entering the airport in the north of Cyprus, such actions do contravene the Chicago Convention and contradict established U.S. foreign policy.

I have sent letters to President George W. Bush and U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice expressing concern regarding the legality of U.S. citizens, U.S. government personnel, and Members of Congress flying directly from Turkey to the airport at Tymbou in the occupied northern part of Cyprus. The letters also requested legal clarification on direct flights to TRNC by U.S. citizens, U.S. government personnel, and Members of Congress. These letters were signed by more than thirty of my colleagues.

I think they need to be reminded that the United States recognizes the Republic of Cyprus as the only government of Cyprus, the Republic of Cyprus has not authorized flights into the northern airport, and the Republic of Cyprus and the United States are signatories to the Chicago Convention. Therefore, when U.S. citizens travel to Cyprus through the northern airport they not only undermine an ally of the United States, but they also flout U.S. foreign policy, which has been in place for ten consecutive presidential terms. As the U.S. government never would allow members of the Cypriot House of Representatives to enter the United States through an airport that is not designated as a legal port of entry, it also should discourage U.S. citizens, U.S. government personnel, and Members of Congress from doing the same in Cyprus.

Such actions do little more than undercut the reunification efforts. The Turkish invasion of Cyprus is responsible for the destabilization of the Republic of Cyprus. Likewise, unauthorized travel into the northern airport, especially by American leaders, belittles the Republic of Cyprus' authority and destroys its credibility. Cyprus' sovereignty deserves no less reverence from the United States than any other nation with which the U.S. deals and considers an ally.

American leaders should set an example for the rest of the world to follow, and in all our dealings with Cyprus, our utmost concern ought to be reunification. We should look to correct the wrong that occurred more than thirty years ago. We should work to bring about a just resolution to the situation. And, at the very least, we must act to halt the continuing injustice which the world community allows to continue in Cyprus.