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April 16, 2007
DeJongh meets with Congressional Delegation on homeland security issues Nine members of the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security visited the territory recently to meet with representatives from the federal, local and private sector involved with port protection and other homeland security issues in the territory. Gov. John deJongh, Jr. said, "We have seen an exponential growth in the number of illegal immigrants coming into the territory." DeJongh also told members of the delegation that he is counting on the partnership between local and federal authorities to address issues affecting the territory including money laundering, drug and human trafficking and illegal immigrants. Police Commissioner James McCall told the delegation that about 50 illegal immigrants arrive in the territory each week, with the majority landing on St. John. Other topics discussed include the implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential Program (TWIC), the establishment of a federal Border Patrol station in the territory, and the effect of recent federal immigration legislation on the local charter boat industry. The Secretary of Homeland Security is scheduled to report to the Congressional Committee next week on the possibility of establishing a Border Patrol unit here. "We do need a Border Patrol Unit or it will only continue to get worse," said Commissioner McCall. DeJongh acknowledged the work of Delegate to Congress Donna Christensen towards the establishment of this unit. DeJongh and the contingent of local officials pressed the Congressional Delegation for additional marine assets to enhance the territory’s law enforcement capabilities. Members of the delegation were transported by the Coast Guard from the meeting on St. Thomas to St. John to get a firsthand look at the territory’s porous borders. They were also hosted by B.V.I. Chief Minister Smith for dinner to address bilateral security issues. V. I. Congressional Delegate Donna Christensen is a member of the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security. |
