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Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega responds to Jim Brittle and Lorn Cramer's Letters to the Editor concerning Vietnam

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has responded to Jim Brittle and Lorne Cramer's letters to the editor concerning Vietnam. A full copy of the Congressman’s response is included below.

Dear Editor:

Faleomavaega concluded his letter by stating, "Until they come home, I will continue to support full funding for our troops as I have done every step of the way despite Lorn's false claims to the contrary."

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega to cheer for the UH Warriors against the Georgia Bulldogs at the 2008 Allstate Sugar Bowl Classic

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he plans to travel to New Orleans next Tuesday to support and cheer for the University of Hawaii Warriors when they play against the Georgia Bulldogs in the 74th Allstate Sugar Bowl Classic which is scheduled for January 1, 2008, 7:30 P.M., at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans this year.

The Warriors, with a 12-0 record and the only undefeated team in the NCAA, is nationally ranked No.10 while the Bulldogs with a 10-2 record is ranked No. 4 and considered the favorite in the Sugar Bowl. The Warriors earned its first Bowl Championship Series (BCS) appearance after they won outright their first Western Athletic Conference title.

"The University of Hawaii's Warriors this season has set two major milestones in their football program by winning their conference's title outright and being awarded a spot in the Bowl Championship Series for the first time in school history," Faleomavaega said.

"I know this year's Sugar Bowl will be a very competitive game between the tough-rugged running offense of the Bulldogs and the high-power passing offense for the Warriors. With the major BCS conferences such as the: Pac-10, Big Ten, Big Twelve, ACC, Big East, and SEC, of which the Georgia Bulldogs are a member, they always seem to look down on the smaller and newer conferences of the Mountain West and the Western Athletic Conference in which the Warriors are a member of. As third ever non-BCS team to play in a BCS bowl game, I am hoping the Warriors will have the same success Boise St. achieved last year after defeating the Oklahoma Sooners in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl in overtime."

"According to the UH Warriors' roster, over a third or 30-percent of the team this year are Samoans or of Samoan ancestry and of which are starters on both of sides of the ball. Among them are products of our local high school football program, namely Amani Purcell, Jason Laumoli, Keith Ah Soon, and Larry Sauafea who were recruited from American Samoa. The participation of these players in this bowl game speaks volumes of the caliber and quality of athletes that we produce from such a small population of 70, 000."

"I am very excited about this game and I am looking forward to the opportunity to being there with families and friends to cheer for our boys. I believe the Warriors are up for the challenge and are ready and prepared to show the nation that they too can play with the big boys," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega congratulates Lofa Tatupu & Troy Polamalu on their selection for the 2008 Pro Bowl

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that Lofa Tatupu of the Seattle Seahawks and Troy Polamalu of the Pittsburgh Steelers were recently selected for the 2008 NFL Pro Bowl scheduled for February 10, 2008 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii.

This season is Lofa Tatupu's third consecutive pro bowl selection since he was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2005 while this will be Troy Polamalu’s fourth pro bowl selection since he was drafted 16th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2003. Both Pro Bowlers played for the University of Southern California under head coach Pete Carroll who led the Trojans to Back-to-Back National Championships in 2003 and 2004. Besides their history at USC, this duo also played against each other in Super Bowl XL in which Troy’s Steelers won their fifth championship.

The Pro Bowl selection is based on votes from the coaches, the players, and the fans through online voting. Each category vote equals 1/3 of the total ballots for consideration for every position for both the American and the National Football Conferences.

"I want to congratulate Lofa and Troy for their selection for the 2008 NFL Pro Bowl scheduled for February 10, 2008," said Congressman Faleomavaega. "This has been a tremendous season for both players and they are deserving of this opportunity to be playing once again in Hawaii."

"It is amazing that out of a population of 70,000, these two young men of Samoan heritage and whose roots are from American Samoa, are able to reach the highest individual honor as an active player of the National Football League. This selection is cumulative of the opinions from their coaches, their peers, and, importantly, their fans that continue to support them everyday. I know this selection also recognizes their fellow Polynesian brothers throughout the league. "

"Although this season is far from over, we must continue to support them and fellow Polynesian sons for the upcoming post-season in which both teams will most likely participate. I want to again congratulate Troy and Lofa for their achievements and especially their parents who are responsible for their success today," concluded Congressman Faleomavaega.

Washington, D.C. -- House Subcommittee on Insular Affairs to conduct field hearings in American Samoa

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House Subcommittee on Insular Affairs is scheduled to hold an oversight field hearing in American Samoa in February 2008 during the week of the President's Day holiday. Under the leadership of Chairwoman Donna Christensen (D-VI), the Subcommittee plans to hear testimonies and comments from the leaders and residents of American Samoa especially on the issue of the Federal minimum wage law.

"This is part of the subcommittee's series of hearings which includes other hearings conducted earlier this year in Saipan and Guam, and I am very grateful that Chairwoman Donna Christensen and other Members of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs have accepted my invitation to visit American Samoa," Faleomavaega said.

"The fact that American Samoa is about 8,000 miles away from Washington, DC is a problem in getting the attention of federal agencies and the Congress. But I am extremely pleased that Chairwoman Christensen will be coming to American Samoa, and we have not held a Congressional field hearing for some time now – and her presence is part of her commitment to assist our insular territories."

"This subcommittee hearing will focus specifically on the issue of minimum wage relative to the impact on the economy of American Samoa. Members of the subcommittee will have a chance to review the Department of Labor's economic status report, expected to be released next month and it is a good opportunity to revisit and address some of the contentious elements in the minimum wage issue," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega thanks American Samoa elementary students and teachers for Christmas tree ornaments

Congressman Faleomavaega today expresses his appreciation to the elementary school teachers and students of Lakina Adventist Academy, Leone Midkiff Elementary School, Lupelele Elementary School, and St. Theresa Elementary School for the beautiful Christmas tree ornaments they prepared and donated for our nation’s National Christmas Tree Program this year.

The National Christmas Tree which stands on the Ellipse, the park area situated between the White House and the George Washington Monument, is a living Colorado blue spruce from York, Pennsylvania. Planted on October 20, 1978, the National Christmas Tree is surrounded by 56 smaller trees sponsored by and representing each of the 50 states, the five U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia. The tree is lighted by the President and First Lady during the Lighting of the National Christmas Tree ceremony held in early December of each year.

"I want to acknowledge the outstanding handicraft work and talent of our local elementary students and teachers who prepared and donated the ornaments for our National Christmas Tree program in Washington, DC," Congressman Faleomavaega said. "I was very impressed by their artistic talent as shown in the ornaments I received in my Washington office."

"I want to thank the principals, the teachers, and especially the students of Lakina Adventist Academy, Leone Midkiff Elementary School, Lupelele Elementary School, and St. Theresa Elementary School for the beautiful ornaments which included a variety of handicrafts and designs that depict the many aspects of our unique Samoan culture and environment. Some examples included Samoan fan, ava bowl, tuiga, siapo, tropical fish, tropical birds, and many other handicrafts woven from coconut leaves, bandanus leaves, and sennit representing every day life in Samoa."

"I am very proud of our students and teachers for their talents. The ornaments have been on display for the world to see on the American Samoa tree next to the National Christmas Tree in our nation's capital," concluded Faleomavaega.

Students and teachers who prepared and donated the Christmas tree ornaments.

Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Faleomavaega congratulates Ken Niumatalolo as new Football Head Coach for the U.S. Naval Academy

Congressman Faleomavaega today offers his personal congratulations to Ken Niumatalolo who was recently selected by the U.S. Naval Academy to be the new head coach for the Midshipmen football team. Ken is considered to be the first NCAA head coach of any collegiate sport who is of Samoan-Polynesian descent. He is the son of Simi Niumatalolo of Aua and La Niumatalolo of Pago Pago, American Samoa.

On December 8, 2007, Naval Academy Director of Athletics Chet Gladchuk promoted Ken as head coach after former Midshipmen coach Paul Johnson accepted a job offer from Georgia Tech. Prior to Navy, Ken was an assistant coach at both University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and his alma mater, the University of Hawaii, in which as quarterback, he led them to their first postseason bowl appearance in 1989. As head coach, Ken will be leading his Navy Midshipmen for the first time against the Utah Utes at the San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl on Thursday, December 20, 2007 in San Diego, California.

Currently, there are four Polynesians on the Midshipmen roster including two from American Samoa, senior Benjamin Gabbard and sophomore Penetekoso Peau. Ben is a senior offensive lineman and has played in every Navy game since 2005. He is the son of William Gabbard, from the village of Leloaloa, American Samoa and Mary Lynn Gabbard; they currently reside in Maryland. Penetekoso is a sophomore defensive lineman and is getting ready to replace the upperclassmen who are graduating next year. Pene is the son of Lelei Peau and Tui Peau of Fagasa and Nu'uuli, American Samoa respectively.

"After receiving news of Ken's promotion as head coach for Navy, I immediately called to congratulate him for achieving such an esteemed honor and responsibility as being the new head coach for the U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen football team," Congressman Faleomavaega said. "Ken brings great pride to Samoans and all Polynesians because he has reached the highest position for coaching in any level of NCAA collegiate football."

"To my knowledge, Ken maybe the first head coach of any collegiate sport with Polynesian roots in the NCAA. I have always known Ken and his family from his early days in Laie. Especially when he was the quarterback for the University of Hawaii Warriors in the 1980s and have also kept track of his progress as an assistant coach for both UNLV and Navy. As an offensive line coach for Navy, Ken played a vital role in having the best rushing offense in the nation for the past five years."

“Ken is a perfect example of the achievements many of our Polynesian athletes have accomplished both on and off the field. I know for a fact that there are many assistant coaches and graduate assistants in almost all conferences in the West and the rest of the nation. From the Pac-10 to the SEC, Polynesians have a strong presence in the rosters and faculty. This also includes the many Polynesians who are coaches and players in the Canadian Football League and the National Football League.”

“Again, I want to congratulate Ken on his new appointment as head coach and I wish him all the best in the future. I would be remiss if I did not also mention our 15 Polynesian players, many of whom are Samoans, that are currently on the Utes roster as well the many families and friends who will be watching and supporting all of our boys play in the Poinsettia Bowl,” concluded Congressman Faleomavaega.

Washington, D.C. -- House Subcommittee on Insular Affairs to conduct field hearing in American Samoa

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House Subcommittee on Insular Affairs is scheduled to hold an oversight field hearing in American Samoa in February 2008 during the week of the President's Day holiday. Under the leadership of Chairwoman Donna Christensen (D-VI), the Subcommittee plans to hear testimonies and comments from the leaders and residents of American Samoa especially on the issue of the Federal minimum wage law.

"This is part of the subcommittee's series of hearings which includes other hearings conducted earlier this year in Saipan and Guam, and I am very grateful that Chairwoman Donna Christensen and other Members of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs have accepted my invitation to visit American Samoa," Faleomavaega said.

"The fact that American Samoa is about 8,000 miles away from Washington, DC is a problem in getting the attention of federal agencies and the Congress. But I am extremely pleased that Chairwoman Christensen will be coming to American Samoa, and we have not held a Congressional field hearing for some time now – and her presence is part of her commitment to assist our insular territories."

"This subcommittee hearing will focus specifically on the issue of minimum wage relative to the impact on the economy of American Samoa. Members of the subcommittee will have a chance to review the Department of Labor's economic status report, expected to be released next month and it is a good opportunity to revisit and address some of the contentious elements in the minimum wage issue," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- House and Senate agree to Faleomavaega's language requiring Department of Interior to give Fono a say in determining how CIP Funds are spent

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House and Senate have passed H.R. 2764, the FY 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill which includes language offered by Faleomavaega to give the Fono a say in selecting what capitol improvement projects should be funded in American Samoa. The bill also includes language from Faleomavaega urging the Department of the Interior to consider the need for water system improvements in Manu’a especially Ofu-Olosega and Ta'u-Faleseao villages.

"American Samoa receives about $10 million per year for capitol improvement projects but, for too long, the Fono especially has not had much of a say in determining how these funds should be spent," Faleomavaega said. "With passage of this bill, the Office of Insular Affairs is now required to work with all territorial governmental bodies including the Fono, the Governor’s office, and the office of the Congressional Delegate in selecting and funding projects. The Office of Insular Affairs is also required to implement an open, transparent, and fair process to be sure the highest priority construction projects receive funding."

"As a matter of practice, I have always respected the role of the local government and have never interfered with ASG’s decisions in determining how these funds should be utilized except in cases of emergency when I set aside $2 million for urgently needed medicines at LBJ. This year, however, it became clear that the Office of Insular Affairs and ASG are earmarking money prior to Congress or the Fono having a say, and this is not the way CIP funds were intended to be disbursed."

"For example, this year, the Governor's office and the Office of Insular Affairs set aside $3 million of our $10 million in CIP funds for fiber optics," the Congressman said. "However, before one-third of our CIP funds were set aside for this purpose, there should have been an open discussion that it would cost approximately $20 million or more to make fiber optics a reality in our territory. The bottom line is I do not believe the Fono has really had a chance to hold oversight hearings and thoroughly review the overall costs of the fiber optics project and how ASG intends to fully finance the project."

"As a result of the language that has now been included in this year’s appropriations bill, I am hopeful that we will not encounter further problems like this. In fact, I am hopeful that the Governor’s office and the Fono will work more closely together in defining high priority projects for American Samoa."

"Again, I support fiber optics and I am fully committed to working with our local leaders to find ways to fund this project. About two years ago, I wrote a letter to our Governor and introduced a fiber optic cable company that was interested to bring fiber optic system to our territory. Nevertheless, it will be up to the Governor and the Fono to discuss the use of CIP funds in the upcoming years as a result of the new language included in this year's appropriations bill."

To be specific, the language states:

The amended bill agrees with the House report concerning the requirement that the Office of Insular Affairs and the Secretary of the Interior work with all territorial governmental bodies and the Congressional Delegate for American Samoa to be sure the highest priority construction projects receive the funding and that an open, transparent, and fair process be implemented in selecting capital improvement projects in American Samoa. In addition, the Department should consider the needs for water system improvements, such as Ofu-Olosega and Ta'u-Faleseao water systems in Manu'a.

"At this time, I want to thank the conferees in the House and Senate for accepting the language I introduced which also includes a suggestion that the Department of the Interior seriously consider addressing the needs for water system improvements in Manu'a. In the past ten years, ASG has received over $100 million in CIP funds but our water systems in Manu'a are still inadequate. For this reason, I am hopeful that the Office of Insular Affairs will review this situation immediately and follow-up with Congress on what next steps need to be taken to rectify this problem."

"Finally, I want to thank our friends in the House and Senate for continuing to set aside over $10 million annually for CIP funds and $23 million annually for the operations of American Samoa's government. In a time of war and significant budget constraints, I am pleased that Congress has supported our efforts to keep these funds in place although President Bush has cut Interior funding across the board by 1.56% including funding for American Samoa."

"The House first passed H.R. 2764, the FY 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill, on Monday December 17, 2007. On December 18, 2007, the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 76-17 but amended it to add Iraq War money. The bill came back to the House and was passed on December 19, 2007 by a vote of 272-142. Again, I thank my colleagues for supporting American Samoa's funding and I thank our people for their faith and prayers," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- LBJ Hospital to get $624,000 for dialysis machines and needed equipment for the ICU and Emergency rooms in LBJ

Congressman Faleomavaega was announced today that the House and Senate passed H.R. 2764, the FY 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill which includes his request for $624,000 for LBJ to purchase additional dialysis machines, supplies and related needs.

"On March 14, 2007, in a letter to Chairman David Obey and Ranking Member James Walsh of the House Committee on Appropriations, I requested $1 million for the purchase of critically needed dialysis and diagnostic medical equipment for our dialysis facility and intensive care and emergency rooms at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center," Faleomavaega said.

"I explained that LBJ is the only health care provider in American Samoa and is a semi-autonomous agency of the American Samoa Government. LBJ does not operate at a profit. With limited resources, LBJ is in a difficult position of upgrading its equipment to meet our people's needs."

"However, Congress has approved $624,000 for the purchase of additional dialysis machines and diagnostic equipment, LBJ will be in a better position to offer improved healthcare for the residents of American Samoa."

"I want to thank my colleagues in the Congress for their support and I also thank Ms. Olita Tafiti, Supervisor of the LBJ Dialysis Center and her dedicated staff for their hard work at the dialysis center. I am told many of our dialysis patients are from Manu'a, and perhaps this fund may assist to purchase two additional dialysis machines to be installed and to operate in Manu'a. I am aware that District Governor Tufele also receives treatment at the Center, and maybe something can be done to provide this service to our people in Manu'a."

"Our new VA health clinic will be a hallmark of our efforts and I am committed to making sure the VA works in conjunction with LBJ at every opportunity. As our local government works to support these federal initiatives, I am confident we can improve healthcare in the Territory and provide our people with the services they deserve," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega disappointed with his visit to Biak and Manokwari Papua, Indonesia

In his letter dated December 13, 2007, Congressman Faleomavaega wrote to His Excellency Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President of the Republic of Indonesia expressing his serious concerns about his recent trip to the towns of Biak and Manokwari, in Papua, Indonesia on November 27, 2007.

"As you know, I originally wanted to visit Papua during my visit to Indonesia in July of this year but your government was unable to allow me to travel at that time due to security concerns," Faleomavaega said in his letter to President SBY. "In August, I again requested an opportunity to visit Papua and your government proposed alternative dates to coincide with your invitation for me to also attend the UN Climate Change Conference to be held in Bali beginning on December 3, 2007."

In good faith, Faleomavaega planned his trip to coincide with the UN conference in Bali in support of President SBY's efforts to implement the provisions of the Special Autonomy Law that was approved by the government of Indonesia since 2001. It was Faleomavaega's understanding that he would visit the towns of Biak and Manokwari in Papua, and, most importantly, the capital of Papua which is Jayapura.

However, while enroute to Jakarta, Faleomavaega received word that the Indonesian government would allow him to spend only 3 days in the provinces of Papua and West Papua. Upon his arrival on November 25, 2007, Faleomavaega was then informed that he would be able to spend only two hours and that he would not be allowed to visit Jayapura.

"Having already been denied entry in July of this year and having accommodated your request to postpone my August visit to the last week of November," Faleomavaega said to President SBY, "I was deeply disappointed that upon my arrival I was again denied entry into Jayapura and that my time was reduced from 5 days to only two hours of actual meetings with the leaders and people of Biak and Manokwari due to supposedly security concerns. Such a decision on the part of your government begs the question, if all is well throughout the provinces of Papua and West Papua, why is security a problem at all?"

"Given that President SBY and I had an understanding that I would support his efforts to implement the Special Autonomy Law based on the understanding that this is what the traditional, religious and political leaders of the Papuan people want at this time," Faleomavaega said, "it is difficult for me to understand why at every turn I have been denied entry to Jayapura and that my time in Papua and West Papua was reduced from 5 days to two hours. In truth, with the exception of the two days I spent with Freeport officials in Timika, I spent all of two hours in Biak and only 10 minutes on the ground in Manokwari."

"In Biak, I met with Governor Barnabas Suebu and other legislators, traditional and religious leaders selected by the government. During the course of our meeting, a highly respected traditional leader, Chief Tom Beanal, was detained by the military, as was Mr. Willie Mandowen. My staff had to go to the gate of the government guesthouse to request that they be allowed entry to our meeting with Governor Suebu. Papuans who had gathered in the streets in Biak were denied the opportunity to meet with us, and US Ambassador Cameron Hume and I had to force our way through a military barricade just to meet with the Papuan people who had to walk several miles from the airport and wait in the hot sun because Indonesian military forces (TNI) barred them from meeting with Ambassador Hume and me."

"During our meeting in the streets with the Papuan people, which the TNI military limited to less than 5 minutes, I publicly thanked President SBY for allowing me to visit Biak. However, though I did not publicly mention it, I was deeply disturbed by the overpowering military presence, which I felt was completely unnecessary," Faleomavaega said.

"In Manokwari, the military presence was even worse. Prior to my arrival in Manokwari, I was told that I would be meeting with the Governor only to learn upon my arrival at the airport that the Governor was in China. Nonetheless, Ambassador Hume and I were put in a car, without any escort and with only a single traffic police unit in front. While we do not require special privileges, we were very aware that our delegation was not given the necessary escort because the TNI was intent on deceiving the Papuans who had gathered on the streets waiting for us."

"As reported by others, we were driven along Trikora Road, the main road from Manokwari to Rendani Airport, then along Sujarwo Condronegoro Road, in the direction of Reremi Road and along Palapa Road (which is very badly damaged, full of potholes and very narrow), then along Merapi Road to Merdeka Road and then on to Siliwangi Road to arrive at the office of the Governor of the Province of West Papua. We were keenly aware that although we were guests of the Indonesian government, TNI drove us through round about routes where acts of sabotage could easily have occurred."

"Arriving at the office of the Governor who was in China, and after meeting for less than 10 minutes with the Vice Governor, I was told that due to weather and security concerns, I would need to depart immediately. In no uncertain terms, I was told by the TNI military leaders that Ambassador Hume and I were not welcome in Manokwari."

"In the TNI's haste to get us out of Manokwari," Faleomavaega continued, "Ambassador Hume and I were separated and placed in different vehicles. We were again driven along the back roads of Manokwari with no clear indication where we were headed, without any escort, and not one single official of the West Papua government accompanied us back to the airport, meaning we were placed in unfavorable circumstances. While I felt no danger whatsoever from the Papuans who were unarmed and only wanted to meet with us, I was very uncomfortable that the TNI military was so bent on not allowing even a conversation to take place. It was my hope and understanding that I would be able to meet with the people and leaders of both provinces but, when I saw how heavily armed that the TNI military was, I knew that the military had no intention of honoring the commitment that President SBY and I had made in Jakarta in July of this year."

"As I arrived in front of the lobby at the Rendani airport, I was able to briefly walk through the crowd at which time the Papuans handed me a petition and put a Manokwari necklace around my neck. I was also given a stuffed Cenderawasih bird as I made my way to the plane. While there was some concern that the Papuans wanted to block the runway in order to meet with us, due to inclement weather our delegation had to board the aircraft quickly."

"From the window of the plane, I saw pushing and shoving between the heavily armed military and the unarmed Papuans. Banners were also raised. Whether or not anyone was hurt or arrested, I do not know but I have requested that the Indonesian government provide me with assurances that no arrests were made and that no one was harmed. I have also asked President SBY if he is still committed to working together to implement the Special Autonomy Law. As I have explained to him, I will support the Special Autonomy Law and work in the US Congress to make sure the Indonesian government is given every opportunity to make good on its promises to the Papuan people based on the understanding that this is also the consensus of the traditional, religious and political leaders of both provinces."

"However, as long as the TNI military forces of Indonesia continue to deny Members of Congress real access to the provinces of Papua and West Papua, especially Jayapura, it will be difficult for me to support the goals of Special Autonomy when clearly the Papuans in these two provinces are still being intimidated, harassed and abused by the TNI. Likewise, I do not consider two hours in Biak and 10 minutes in Manokwari as access. Until I am allowed to visit Jayapura, as I have been promised, and until I am allowed to meet with the people of Papua, as President SBY and I agreed, I cannot in good conscience inform my colleagues in Congress that progress is being made to implement the Special Autonomy Law which has mostly remained dormant since 2001 and, since for the past 60 years, until President SBY’s leadership, the government of Indonesia has done absolutely nothing to help the Papuan people who only want to be treated humanely."

"I do commend President SBY for his efforts to implement the Special Autonomy Law which is supposed to ensure the civil rights and liberties of the Papuan people and, at this time, I still believe we can work together in cooperation with Freeport Mining, USAID, OPIC, and the traditional, religious, and political leaders of both provinces to strengthen the Special Autonomy Law. But, whether or not we move forward is entirely up to President SBY and those who control the activities of Indonesia’s TNI military forces."

"While I appreciate the constraints President SBY is under, I remain hopeful that we can overcome these obstacles and establish a more stable environment that is mutually beneficial for Jakarta and the Papuan people," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- House passes H.R. 3079 - a bill to extend Federal Immigration laws to CNMI

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that on December 11, 2007 the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that will extend federal immigration laws to the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and also provide CNMI with a delegate to the U.S. Congress.

"I cannot stress enough the importance of the unique political relationship between the United States and the CNMI, especially in the interest of our national security. The significance of this political relationship has elevated since the closures of the Clarke Air Force Base and our Naval Base in Subic Bay in the Philippines," said Faleomavaega. "Moreover, the pending transfer, of some 9,000 US Marines and their families from Okinawa to Guam, and likely also to CNMI, has made this relationship even more critical and important to our strategic and military interests in this region of the world."

"I am pleased for the removal of a certain provision that would have legalized the status of illegal immigrants or overstayers in CNMI. Furthermore, I support the concerns of the administration and House members supporting the bill, but we should also be mindful that there is a GAO study currently underway in reviewing CNMI's immigration problems that hopefully will shed some more light on the current situation in CNMI. It is my sincere hope that the GAO study will give us more information on CNMI's overall economic and political development, and the bill we're about to pass will complement the findings of the GAO report that will be completed in the near future."

"This legislation addresses the unique situation in CNMI and in no way associated with the immigration issues in American Samoa. Indeed, in a joined effort with Chairman Nick Rahall of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and Chairwoman Donna Christensen of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, we have already requested that the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a comprehensive review of the current immigration system in American Samoa given our Territory’s unique political relationship with the United States."

"Again, I want to thank and commend Chairman Nick Rahall and Ranking Member Don Young of the Committee on Natural Resources, Chairlady Donna Christensen of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs for their continued leadership and service on this important legislation. I especially want to recognize their spirit of bipartisanship in making a provision authorizing CNMI to have a delegate to Congress," Faleomavaega concluded.

While on assignment to Asia, Congressman Faleomavaega visited Cambodia where he met with Ambassador Joseph Mussomeli and U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) Nicholas Punimata who currently serves as the military attache responsible for security for the U.S. Embassy in Cambodia and facilitating counterterrorism training to the government officials of Cambodia. CW4 Punimata is the son of Nuuese Punimata and Matamulisesula of American Samoa.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega fully supports effort to increase US Tuna fishing fleet in American Samoa

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that on Saturday December 8, 2007 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan he met with the South Pacific Tuna Corporation and FCF, the largest fish trading company in the world, to fully promote efforts to increase the US tuna fishing fleet in American Samoa. The Congressman was on assignment in Asia and concluded his visit by participating in the launching ceremony of the Sea Fox, a new state of the art tuna vessel that will become a part of the US tuna fishing fleet and which will fish in South Pacific waters and supply fish to American Samoa’s canneries.

"I want to especially thank Mr. Dave Burney, CEO and President of the South Pacific Tuna Corporation (SPTC), Mr. Lee Hung-wen, Vice Chairman of the FCF Fishery, and Mr. Hsieh Ta-wen, Director General of the Taiwan Fishery Administration for inviting me to participate in the launching ceremony of the newest purse seine vessel, the 'Sea Fox'," Faleomavaega said. "More importantly, I was pleased to discuss American Samoa’s needs and to support SPTC's efforts to build the US tuna fishing fleet."

"Taiwan has probably the best tuna boat building capabilities in the world and SPTC is working closing with Taiwan to rebuild the US tuna fishing fleet. The US tuna fishing fleet started off with about 35 vessels from San Diego, which fished out of American Samoa. The fleet has dwindled down to 14 vessels and this raises serious questions about where our canneries are going to get their fish. If there is no fish, there are no canneries," Faleomavaega said.

"This is why we need boats and this is why I am pleased to be working closely with SPTC, Taiwan's Ministry of Fisheries, and FCF. Right now, as a result of the South Pacific Tuna Treaty, the US is allowed up to 40 vessels to fish in Pacific waters. We are hopeful that in the next year or two, we will be able to add an additional 10 vessels to our current fleet of 14," Faleomavaega said.

"Increasing our fleet will also provide job opportunities to American Samoans who may be interested in becoming captains to man these multimillion dollar fishing vessels. This is a golden opportunity for students who may seek careers in this field and who may be interested in applying for possible enrollment as a candidate for the US Merchant Marine Academy."

"To further protect the jobs of our cannery workers whose livelihood depend on fish being delivered to our canneries, it is necessary that we further develop American Samoa’s fisheries and rebuild the US tuna fishing fleet. I am fully committed to this effort and I again thank the leaders of Taiwan for working with me in this important endeavor."

"It is my intent to continue discussions with our other regional partners including our South Pacific neighbors. During my meeting with the Pacific Island Conference of Leaders, I encouraged our Pacific Island leaders to also develop their fishing fleets and send their fish to American Samoa's canneries. I am sure that in due time we can work out an agreement that is beneficial to us all and I am pleased with the progress we have made thus far," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega attends United Nations Climate Change Conference

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that while on assignment to Asia, he is attending the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Faleomavaega is attending the conference in his official capacity as Chairman of the Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment and also as an invited guest of the President of Indonesia, His Excellency Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

Other members including, Congressman James Sensenbrenner and Congressman Ed Markey are expected to attend. About 5 members of the U.S. Senate will also participate and will arrive during the week of December 8, 2007. Faleomavaega is attending the opening sessions from December 3-5, 2007.

While at the conference, Faleomavaega met with other Pacific Island leaders including those from Samoa, Palau, the Cook Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. Faleomavaega also attended the Alliance of Small Island States which is composed of island nations from the Caribbean, the Pacific, and other island communities.

"When it comes to global climate change, small island communities are most vulnerable," Faleomavaega said, "so it is very important for us to show a strong presence so industrialized countries will hear our concerns. At yesterday’s opening ceremony, Australia officially announced it will sign on to the Kyoto Protocol, making the U.S. the only nation that has not agreed to the Protocol."

"For now, the Bush Administration will only support non-binding or voluntary resolutions that do not require our big corporations to reduce carbon emissions. In part, this is because the oil industry drives our nation. However, I am convinced if a Democrat is elected president, we will see a dramatic change in U.S. policy when it comes to global climate change."

"The UN conference being held in Bali at this time is critical for setting the stage for the next steps that the world, including the U.S. must take if we are serious about preserving the environment for future generations as well as for vulnerable societies today. The Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012 and in Bali we are discussing ways in which to establish a framework for a post Kyoto Protocol. It is expected that negotiations will begin in 2008 and will be completed by 2009."

"As these negotiations take place, my Subcommittee, which has broad oversight for issues affecting the global environment, will continue to hold hearings to draw attention especially to how climate change will seriously impact the Asia-Pacific region which includes our island communities. As Subcommittee Chairman, I have held three hearings this year including one on the Kyoto Protocol, APEC's environmental initiative, and the global environment and renewable energy."

"In the new year, it is my intent to hold a hearing on the Bali conference and where we go from here. In so doing, I am hopeful that the U.S. will work with the global community and the UN to chart a course for the future that will protect the Pacific way of life for future generations," Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega visits Cambodia and commends CW4 Nicholas Punimata for his service to our nation

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that while on assignment in Asia he visited Cambodia where CW4 Nicholas Punimata is serving as the military defense attache to the U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia.

"I was so proud to learn when I arrived in Cambodia that CW4 Punimata is serving as the military attaché responsible for providing security for our US embassy and facilitating counterterrorism training to the government officials of Cambodia," Faleomavaega said. "CW4 Punimata is a member of the elite U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Beret). He has served for some 26 years now and is a certified Master Airborne Paratrooper and Ranger in the Army."

"CW4 Nicholas Punimata was the first ever Warrant Officer and the only Samoan to have received the prestigious General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award in 2001. This top award is given annually to company grade officers in the Active Army, the Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard who exhibit extraordinary leadership abilities or ideals for which General Douglas MacArthur stood – duty, honor, country, and is usually reserved for the top brass in the military and VIPs. CW4 Punimata is very well respected among our Embassy officials and especially our Ambassador and has a wealth of knowledge on counterterrorism and interdiction of serious drug trafficking in the region, and I fully commend him for the work he is doing. CW4 Punimata is the son of Nu'uese Punimata and Matamulisesula Punimata of Utulei and Ta'u, Manu'a respectively."

"Cambodia is a land that has seen tremendous sorrow and suffering as the Khmer Rouge regime led by Pol Pot whereby more than 1.7 million Cambodians were slaughtered, tortured and murdered -- and almost every government leader I met had lost family members as a result of this terrible genocide that took place."

"I visited the 'killing fields' and saw massive graves where some 9,000 bodies were buried one on top of the other; and the prisons where men, women, and children were systematically tortured, and my heart sank seeing so up close of the tremendous sufferings that these people went through, and all because of an ideology that was so twisted and inhumane."

"On the other hand, I also saw the resilience of the human spirit as the good-hearted people of Cambodia are working to rebuild, and as their neighbors, including Vietnam, are working to help. I was struck by the words of the Senior Minister and Minister of Commerce, His Excellency Cham Prasidh, who said, "When you are drowning, you do not care about the color of the hand that is saving you."

"I believe that man has a responsibility to help his fellowmen, and for that reason, I am so thankful I had the opportunity to stop in Cambodia for two days while on assignment to Asia. The experience was profound and I will certainly do all I can to help the people and leaders of Cambodia to rebuild their nation." Faleomavaega concluded.

Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega returns to Vietnam after 40 years; Meets with Vice President and other high ranking government officials

Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that after more than 40 years he returned to Vietnam while on assignment to Asia. While in Vietnam, he met with high-ranking government officials in Hanoi, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).

"In 1967, I joined the Army and was deployed to Vietnam," Faleomavaega said. "Forty years later, I was humbled to return to Vietnam and represent the United States and the people of American Samoa, but now in my official capacity as Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment."

"I was especially honored to meet with Vice President Ms. Nguyen Thi Doan who is a remarkable and inspirational woman, having, as a minority, risen to the top levels of the Vietnamese government. Our discussion was meaningful, insightful, and engaging. We renewed our commitment to strengthening U.S. – Vietnam relations, and pledged to work together to increase trade and address other matters beneficial to our respective countries."

"In Hanoi, I also met with Deputy National Assembly Chairperson Ms. Tong Thi Phong who is also to be commended and recognized for her accomplishments as one of Vietnam’s top national leaders."

"I also had the privilege of meeting with Vice Foreign Minister Mr. Le Van Bang who I knew while he previously served in Washington, DC as Vietnam’s Ambassador to the United States. During his tenure as Ambassador, we worked closely together to bring resolution to the Daewoosa garment incident and I will always appreciate the courtesy he showed to late Governor Tauese Sunia who I arranged for him to meet at the height of the Daewoosa scandal which the national media brought so much unwanted attention to American Samoa."

"After meeting with other government officials in Hanoi, including the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly and his colleagues, I travelled to Nha Trang where I served as a soldier from 1967-1968 at the height of the TET Offensive in January 1968. I was deeply moved by the experience and, not knowing whether I would come back alive or in a body bag. I also remembered well my younger brother Taulauniu who also served in Vietnam."

"While in Vietnam, I thought of American Samoa’s soldiers now caught up in a conflict that brings their families endless nights of worry and concern while serving our nation in Iraq and Afghanistan. I pray for the safety of all our men and women in uniform and for their quick return home to their families and loved ones."

"My time in Vietnam was a clear reminder that good people everywhere want the same things in life. At a closing dinner hosted by the National Assembly of Ho Chi Minh City, I had long discussions with members of their Foreign Affairs Committee who had also served in the Vietnam War. Though we were once enemies, we embraced each other as friends who share the same hopes and dreams for our families and countries. I saw further testament of this when I attended Catholic Mass in Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday morning and was surprised to learn that 7-million Vietnamese are members of the Catholic Church which was very impressive and I thought about our own faithful members of the Catholic Church throughout Samoa."

"All in all, it is evident that, despite our ideological differences, the people and government of Vietnam are committed to building stronger US-Vietnam relations and I have come to realize that Ho Chi Minh was a great leader who only wanted to get rid of 100 years of French colonialism and establish a better life for his own people," Faleomavaega concluded.

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