Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding today’s hearing.  These individuals have been selected to fulfill vital roles within their organizations and I thank them for their willingness to serve.

 

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority has a critical responsibility to the millions of travelers who pass through Washington Dulles International and Ronald

 

Reagan Washington National Airports each year, and it is essential that these two airports be run efficiently.  I was once a member of this Board so I understand the challenges it faces.  Mr. Brown, you have already served a number of years on the Board and I appreciate your continued service. 

 

The Inspector general’s office is charged with conducting independent and objective investigations within a department and it is crucial that this position be filled by an individual who remains honest and impartial throughout the investigative and auditing process.  I look forward to hearing Mr. Zinser’s vision for the ig’s office at the department of commerce.

 

The maritime industry is vital to U.S. commerce.  Protecting ocean borne transportation and the security of our ports is of the utmost importance.  I welcome our two nominees for the federal maritime commission and look forward to hearing from them.