Congresswoman Doris Matsui Makes a Statement Regarding the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009

"I appreciate your invitation to weigh-in on this important issue, and
though I regrettably cannot join you today, I would like to draw your
attention to the on-going debate around cruise ship safety.  We cannot
afford to ignore this issue any longer, as it affects the security of
Americans across our nation.  Three years ago, a constituent of mine wrote
to me to ask for help.  Laurie Dishman was the victim of a sexual assault
while on a cruise vacation, and was given no assistance by the cruise line
in properly securing evidence of the assault, identifying her attacker who
was an employee of the cruise ship, or prosecuting the crime once back on
shore."

"I have been working closely with my colleague, Senator John Kerry, to get
this bill the attention it needs and deserves.  I was shocked to learn
during the Congressional hearings we held that there has not been a
conviction of an accused rape on a cruise ship in recent history.  With
continued news coverage of recent rapes on cruise ships, it is clear that
legislation is both urgent and necessary.  

"I am pleased to that the Senate Commerce, Science and Technology Committee
marked-up the bill earlier this month and am working with my colleagues in
the House of Representatives to pass this vital legislation.  The Cruise
Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009 will ensure the safety and protection
of millions of Americans who embark on cruises each year.  For far too long,
American families have unknowingly been at risk on cruise ships.

Thank you to the hosts of Travel Talk Radio for being a leader in helping to
shed light on this important issue, and to Ken Carver and all of the
volunteer members of the International Cruise Victims Association whose
tireless commitment who have made all of this possible.  I look forward to
continuing to work with you in the coming weeks."

Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)
222 Cannon HOB, Washington, DC 20515
o: 202.225.7163

 For more information join Sandy Dhuyvetter this Sunday between  9 - 11AM
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-- Edited by ICVADMIN on Thursday 23rd of July 2009 05:48:15 PM