Governor reaches common ground with legislature
Tuesday, 16 February 2010 00:55
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SENATORS were generally pleased with Gov. Felix Camacho’s last state of the island address.
“I liked some of the stuff I heard,” said Sen. Ben Pangelinan. “I think some of it was a little late. I think that we needed to have this kind of conviction and strength in the military buildup when we were doing the scoping meetings three/four years ago, but I liked what I heard today. In that respect, I’m finally glad he woke up to that issue.
Speaker Judi Won Pat was glad the governor included the elements contained in Resolution 275. “More importantly,” Won Pat said, “he acknowledged that we don’t want the dredging of Apra Harbor; the impact to our environment; the issues regarding the firing range and his stance on land taking was good.”
Senator Tina Muna Barnes welcomed the governor’s statement about the federal government’s fiscal obligation to Guam. “What’s important is that we’re not asking for that aid, we’re demanding and the federal government must fund the buildup if it wants the community of Guam to work harmoniously together,” she said.
“There was one component that he did not touch on and that is working closely with the mayors and the empowerment of these village level leaders because they continue to be the heartbeat of the community; he forgot to mention them,” Barnes added.
Senator Telo Taitague said she was touched by the emotions that came with Camacho’s reference to his family. “He did a great job. The fact that his family was right behind him encouraging him to do things for our people all these years; it was very touching. That moment of thankfulness to his family; it was a good thing.”
However, the comment about the military buildup left much to be desired, she said. “What are we going to do at this point? When he mentioned that he wanted to delay the buildup. I don’t think delay was what we were looking for from him and I’m a bit concerned about that.”
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo supports the governor’s proposal to revert the island’s name to Guahan.
Supreme Court of Guam Chief Justice Robert Torres said of the governor’s speech was “very well delivered.”
“There were two points I think were important that people can’t overlook,” Torre said. “One very obvious one is the return of the traditional name of Guahan which is being more customarily used anyways. I don’t think it’s going to be too much of a leap to get there.”
“The other important topic was the reunification with the Northern Marianas. I’ve had discussions with constitutional scholars about a reunification plan that would preserve local governance in the respective jurisdictions; I think there are ways that can be accomplished and I think it’s something that we as a people need to look at because I think that our political relationship with the United States should be evaluated and looked at as one Marianas,” said Torres.
Showing posts with label Resolution 275. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Resolution 275. Show all posts
Friday, February 19, 2010
PNC :: Senators & We Are Guahan React To Governor's Speech
PNC :: Senators & We Are Guahan React To Governor's Speech
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - Meanwhile some members of the legislature and the We Are Guahan Coalition chimed in on how they felt about the governor's speech.
Buildup chairwoman Senator Judy Guthertz says she was very pleased with the governor's speach however she wishes he had taken these positions on the military buildup years ago. Guthertz says much of the speech re-iterated issues that Guthertz and other lawmakers have been talking about for years.
As for changing guam's name officially to Guahan Guthertz supports the idea as long as it's accompanied by something more concrete in the way of guam's political identity. Senator Rory Respicio says that he was touched by the governors speech when referring to the sacrifices he and his family have endured however, Respicio was hoping that he would speak a little bit more in detail about how he plans to handle the challenges of the military buildup. The senator says resolution 275 should be used a blueprint for how to deal with the buildup. Respicio also supports changing Guam to Guahan but he like Guthertz would like to see it accompanied with some kind of legislation that deals with Guam's political status.
Republican Senator Frank Blas Jr. was a part of the first Camacho administration and helped bring Guam back from the rubble of typhoon Pongsona. He says that people tend to forget the kind of adversities the Camacho administration had to deal with when first taking office. As for the idea of changing Guam to Guahan Blas says he's all for it.
We are Guahan member Vicki Leon Guerrero was pleasantly surprised by many of the points the governor touched upon in his speech. The We Are Guahan Coalition has been very vocal about the concerns that many members of the community have with regards to the military buildup. They have spoken at various DEIS hearings including ones held by the Governor. A lot of the concerns the governor spoke about reflected those of the We Are Guahan group. Leon Guerrero says she believes the Governor could have said a little more though particulary about what his agency heads have discovered after reviewing the DEIS. Nevertheless Leon Guerrero says that the governor's speech was "definitely refreshing". What interested her most though was the propossal of changing Guam to Guahan.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
Monday, 15 February 2010
Guam - Meanwhile some members of the legislature and the We Are Guahan Coalition chimed in on how they felt about the governor's speech.
Buildup chairwoman Senator Judy Guthertz says she was very pleased with the governor's speach however she wishes he had taken these positions on the military buildup years ago. Guthertz says much of the speech re-iterated issues that Guthertz and other lawmakers have been talking about for years.
As for changing guam's name officially to Guahan Guthertz supports the idea as long as it's accompanied by something more concrete in the way of guam's political identity. Senator Rory Respicio says that he was touched by the governors speech when referring to the sacrifices he and his family have endured however, Respicio was hoping that he would speak a little bit more in detail about how he plans to handle the challenges of the military buildup. The senator says resolution 275 should be used a blueprint for how to deal with the buildup. Respicio also supports changing Guam to Guahan but he like Guthertz would like to see it accompanied with some kind of legislation that deals with Guam's political status.
Republican Senator Frank Blas Jr. was a part of the first Camacho administration and helped bring Guam back from the rubble of typhoon Pongsona. He says that people tend to forget the kind of adversities the Camacho administration had to deal with when first taking office. As for the idea of changing Guam to Guahan Blas says he's all for it.
We are Guahan member Vicki Leon Guerrero was pleasantly surprised by many of the points the governor touched upon in his speech. The We Are Guahan Coalition has been very vocal about the concerns that many members of the community have with regards to the military buildup. They have spoken at various DEIS hearings including ones held by the Governor. A lot of the concerns the governor spoke about reflected those of the We Are Guahan group. Leon Guerrero says she believes the Governor could have said a little more though particulary about what his agency heads have discovered after reviewing the DEIS. Nevertheless Leon Guerrero says that the governor's speech was "definitely refreshing". What interested her most though was the propossal of changing Guam to Guahan.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Bordallo urged to push buildup resolution
Bordallo urged to push buildup resolution
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 13, 2010
With the unanimous approval of Resolution 275, Sen. Frank Blas Jr. reminded Delegate Madeleine Bordallo of her promise to support and represent to Congress the many issues listed in the measure.
The resolution, which the Legislature approved on Thursday, raises many issues concerning the draft Environmental Impact Statement and the impact of the military's buildup plans on Guam.
Resolution 275 also urges Congress to address long-standing local issues, including war reparations, Compact-impact reimbursement, the removal of Medicaid funding caps and unreturned ancestral land.
"In light of your commitment to represent the position of the Legislature on behalf of the people of Guam as contained in Resolution 275 to members of both the House and Senate, I thank you for this promise and look forward to your introduction of measures that would address our concerns and also provide resolution to our long-standing issues," Blas wrote in a letter sent to her office yesterday afternoon.
The letter was just one of several sent by local senators to Bordallo's office this past week.
Foreign workers
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz, in a series of letters, called on Bordallo to reconsider her position on allowing the use of foreign workers on buildup-related construction projects.
Cruz cited estimates in the draft EIS report that H-2 workers will spend about 20 percent of their income in the local economy, while workers hired locally are estimated to spend 45 percent of their income here.
"Based on the (Department of Defense's) anticipated expenditures from 2010 through 2016, local workers are expected to infuse about $471 million into Guam's economy, while H-2 workers are anticipated to infuse about $294 million," Cruz said in his letter.
He said the decision to use H-2 workers represents a loss of hundreds of millions of dollars that otherwise would've contributed to Guam's economy.
Bordallo's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent to her office Thursday.
Though Guam is exempt from the national annual cap on the hiring of foreign workers, the labor regulations require employers to hire local workers first.
For example, before employers file an application, they have to put out an advertisement and make efforts to recruit locally before applying to Guam's Department of Labor to hire foreign labor.
The Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy continues to train and prepare residents for thousands of construction jobs anticipated with the buildup.
But officials have said companies still will have to hire from off island because there aren't enough skilled construction workers to hire locally.
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 13, 2010
With the unanimous approval of Resolution 275, Sen. Frank Blas Jr. reminded Delegate Madeleine Bordallo of her promise to support and represent to Congress the many issues listed in the measure.
The resolution, which the Legislature approved on Thursday, raises many issues concerning the draft Environmental Impact Statement and the impact of the military's buildup plans on Guam.
Resolution 275 also urges Congress to address long-standing local issues, including war reparations, Compact-impact reimbursement, the removal of Medicaid funding caps and unreturned ancestral land.
"In light of your commitment to represent the position of the Legislature on behalf of the people of Guam as contained in Resolution 275 to members of both the House and Senate, I thank you for this promise and look forward to your introduction of measures that would address our concerns and also provide resolution to our long-standing issues," Blas wrote in a letter sent to her office yesterday afternoon.
The letter was just one of several sent by local senators to Bordallo's office this past week.
Foreign workers
Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz, in a series of letters, called on Bordallo to reconsider her position on allowing the use of foreign workers on buildup-related construction projects.
Cruz cited estimates in the draft EIS report that H-2 workers will spend about 20 percent of their income in the local economy, while workers hired locally are estimated to spend 45 percent of their income here.
"Based on the (Department of Defense's) anticipated expenditures from 2010 through 2016, local workers are expected to infuse about $471 million into Guam's economy, while H-2 workers are anticipated to infuse about $294 million," Cruz said in his letter.
He said the decision to use H-2 workers represents a loss of hundreds of millions of dollars that otherwise would've contributed to Guam's economy.
Bordallo's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent to her office Thursday.
Though Guam is exempt from the national annual cap on the hiring of foreign workers, the labor regulations require employers to hire local workers first.
For example, before employers file an application, they have to put out an advertisement and make efforts to recruit locally before applying to Guam's Department of Labor to hire foreign labor.
The Guam Contractors Association Trades Academy continues to train and prepare residents for thousands of construction jobs anticipated with the buildup.
But officials have said companies still will have to hire from off island because there aren't enough skilled construction workers to hire locally.
PNC :: Resolution Calls DEIS "Grossly Flawed"
PNC :: Resolution Calls DEIS "Grossly Flawed"
Friday, 12 February 2010
Guam - Resolution 275 calls the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the planned military buildup, "grossly flawed."
The resolution details the legislatures objections to the impact of the military buildup and provides a list of "essential elements," un-related to the buildup, "that must be favorably resolved."
The list includes the right to self determination, the return of ancestral lands, war reparations and other issues.
Read Resolution 275
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/pdf/resforobama.pdf
The resolution will be taken to Washington D.C. next month by a group of Guam Senators who hope to be able to present it to the U.S. Congress and President Obama.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
Friday, 12 February 2010
Guam - Resolution 275 calls the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the planned military buildup, "grossly flawed."
The resolution details the legislatures objections to the impact of the military buildup and provides a list of "essential elements," un-related to the buildup, "that must be favorably resolved."
The list includes the right to self determination, the return of ancestral lands, war reparations and other issues.
Read Resolution 275
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/pdf/resforobama.pdf
The resolution will be taken to Washington D.C. next month by a group of Guam Senators who hope to be able to present it to the U.S. Congress and President Obama.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
No more troops
No more troops
Friday, 12 February 2010 03:52
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
Japanese officials given copy of ‘sentiment’ resolution
LAWMAKERS yesterday unanimously passed a resolution that reiterates the island residents’ sentiments on the military’s draft environmental impact statement, which they consider “grossly flawed.”
Visiting members of Japan’s House of Representatives assured senators that there will be no additional troops that will be deployed to Guam beyond the number originally agreed upon between The United States and Japan.
Senator Rory Respicio, author of Resolution 275, described the legislature’s action as a tremendous victory for the people of Guam. He said the resolution reflects months of input based on the review of the draft impact report.
“The legislature’s approach to this military buildup is that we have to represent the people’s feelings on this matter,” said the lawmaker.
Respicio said Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo has made a commitment to represent the legislature’s position, which reflects the sentiments of the people.
Respicio hopes for Gov. Felix Camacho’s support for the resolution and to give his commitment as well.
Two members of Japan’s Diet, Mikio Shimoji of the People’s New Party and Tomoko Abe of the Social Democrat Party, made a brief stop at the legislature during yesterday’s session. The resolution was presented to the two Japanese lawmakers.
“What we saw today, we don’t think that there’s enough capacity for more forces because of the infrastructure situation in Guam,” Shimoji said through an interpreter. “And considering the sentiments and motivations of the people of Guam, at this point, there cannot be additional forces from Japan.”
Shimoji also said that the United States and Japan must both share equal responsibility for the buildup. He said when he returns to Japan, he and other members of the delegation will share with their colleagues the sentiments of Guam residents about the buildup.
Committeewoman on the Guam Military Buildup, Sen. Judi Guthertz said that
“The people of Guam should be proud of the legislature for standing up for them and for trying to make certain that this buildup will not be one sided but that it will benefit everyone who calls Guam home now and in the future,” said Sen. Judi Guthertz, chairman of the military buildup committee.
Guthertz said that was the goal of lawmakers when they drafted the resolution. “I encourage the people of Guam to read the resolution so that they can see what the legislature said and what we’re trying to accomplish,” said the lawmaker.
Speaker Judi Won Pat said the resolution is a very significant piece of document that would change Japan’s impression of Guam’s position on the military buildup.
Japanese Diet members told Won Pat that they were always under the impression, three to four years ago, that 80 to 90 percent of Guam residents were in favor of the buildup. “That was the story they were given,” Won Pat said.
They were very curious to find what the true sentiments were and this is why they made the effort to visit the Guam Legislature when they learned that Resolution 275 was being heard regarding the buildup.
“We told them that it will contain the sentiments of the people, and that to them was far more important—that they know what the military side of the story is, and they wanted to know the people of Guam’s story, too,” said the speaker.
Won Pat said members of the Japanese Diet were very humble when they acknowledged that Japan has an equal responsibility as the United States in terms of the Marines’ relocation as stated in the U.S. and Japan agreement.
“To us, this speaks volumes because this is the first time any government has ever said that—admitting that share in the responsibility,” said Won Pat.
The delegation left Guam yesterday afternoon.
Friday, 12 February 2010 03:52
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
Japanese officials given copy of ‘sentiment’ resolution
LAWMAKERS yesterday unanimously passed a resolution that reiterates the island residents’ sentiments on the military’s draft environmental impact statement, which they consider “grossly flawed.”
Visiting members of Japan’s House of Representatives assured senators that there will be no additional troops that will be deployed to Guam beyond the number originally agreed upon between The United States and Japan.
Senator Rory Respicio, author of Resolution 275, described the legislature’s action as a tremendous victory for the people of Guam. He said the resolution reflects months of input based on the review of the draft impact report.
“The legislature’s approach to this military buildup is that we have to represent the people’s feelings on this matter,” said the lawmaker.
Respicio said Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo has made a commitment to represent the legislature’s position, which reflects the sentiments of the people.
Respicio hopes for Gov. Felix Camacho’s support for the resolution and to give his commitment as well.
Two members of Japan’s Diet, Mikio Shimoji of the People’s New Party and Tomoko Abe of the Social Democrat Party, made a brief stop at the legislature during yesterday’s session. The resolution was presented to the two Japanese lawmakers.
“What we saw today, we don’t think that there’s enough capacity for more forces because of the infrastructure situation in Guam,” Shimoji said through an interpreter. “And considering the sentiments and motivations of the people of Guam, at this point, there cannot be additional forces from Japan.”
Shimoji also said that the United States and Japan must both share equal responsibility for the buildup. He said when he returns to Japan, he and other members of the delegation will share with their colleagues the sentiments of Guam residents about the buildup.
Committeewoman on the Guam Military Buildup, Sen. Judi Guthertz said that
“The people of Guam should be proud of the legislature for standing up for them and for trying to make certain that this buildup will not be one sided but that it will benefit everyone who calls Guam home now and in the future,” said Sen. Judi Guthertz, chairman of the military buildup committee.
Guthertz said that was the goal of lawmakers when they drafted the resolution. “I encourage the people of Guam to read the resolution so that they can see what the legislature said and what we’re trying to accomplish,” said the lawmaker.
Speaker Judi Won Pat said the resolution is a very significant piece of document that would change Japan’s impression of Guam’s position on the military buildup.
Japanese Diet members told Won Pat that they were always under the impression, three to four years ago, that 80 to 90 percent of Guam residents were in favor of the buildup. “That was the story they were given,” Won Pat said.
They were very curious to find what the true sentiments were and this is why they made the effort to visit the Guam Legislature when they learned that Resolution 275 was being heard regarding the buildup.
“We told them that it will contain the sentiments of the people, and that to them was far more important—that they know what the military side of the story is, and they wanted to know the people of Guam’s story, too,” said the speaker.
Won Pat said members of the Japanese Diet were very humble when they acknowledged that Japan has an equal responsibility as the United States in terms of the Marines’ relocation as stated in the U.S. and Japan agreement.
“To us, this speaks volumes because this is the first time any government has ever said that—admitting that share in the responsibility,” said Won Pat.
The delegation left Guam yesterday afternoon.
PNC :: Japan Diet Delegation Tours Guam During Fact Finding Mission
PNC :: Japan Diet Delegation Tours Guam During Fact Finding Mission
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Guam - A 23 member delegation of the Japan Diet or legislature toured the island of Guam today seeing the military bases and meeting with local officials.
The group is part of a fact finding team sent to Guam to help determine if the island would be suitable for the relocation of the Futenma U.S. Marine Air Base. This base does not include the 8,000 marines already slated to move to Guam.
Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama sent the delegation to the CNMI and Guam to find alternative sites for the relocation of the Futenma US Marine Air Base. Futenma has been a sticking point for the defense realignment agreement between the U.S. and Japan. The U.S. has promised to move 8,000 marines and their dependents from Okinawa to Guam as long as they can move Futenma to the north of Okinawa. Okinawans have protested this and instead want Futenma off of their island completely. Japanese officials have said that Guam could be a potential place for this relocation.
Today the 23 member Japanese delegation toured the bases and met with the Governor during a closed door meeting. While media was not allowed inside the governor did talk afterwards saying that he re-iterated that Guam could not host additional marines and that the 8,000 that are alsready slated to come here were more than enough. Camacho says they realize that there has to be consideration of Guam's ability to host additional marines. According to the governor Japan is not necessarily focussed on moving Futenma to Guam He says "They're simply trying to say move them out of Okinawa"
On the other hand CNMI governor Benigno Fitial told the Japanese diet members that Futenma could be moved to the CNMI. Fitial said he would welcome the marines because he know that Guam can not accomodate them.
While the Governor held a closed door meeting the legislature held a very open meeting with two diet members namely Mikio Shimoji and Tomoko Abe. Both are members of the ruling social democratic party of Japan or the same party that the prime minister is a part of. After having dinner with Speaker Judi Wonpat on Wednesday Shimoji and Abe met with the legislature to receive resolution 275 that Guam lawmakers spent all day revising before passing. The resolution in essence shares many of the major concerns of Guam's local population as received through the various public hearings the legislature has held on the buildup. Abe said that both she and Shimoji would bring the resolution to Prime Minister Hatoyama.
As for Shimoji he told lawmakers that the agreement was between the United States and Japan and that because of this Japan has a responsibility to make sure that it is carried out with the interest of Guam in mind. Both Shimoji and Abe pledged to be a voice for Guam in the Japan Diet. As for the plans to move Futenma to Guam, Shimoji says he doesn't think it will happen.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Guam - A 23 member delegation of the Japan Diet or legislature toured the island of Guam today seeing the military bases and meeting with local officials.
The group is part of a fact finding team sent to Guam to help determine if the island would be suitable for the relocation of the Futenma U.S. Marine Air Base. This base does not include the 8,000 marines already slated to move to Guam.
Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama sent the delegation to the CNMI and Guam to find alternative sites for the relocation of the Futenma US Marine Air Base. Futenma has been a sticking point for the defense realignment agreement between the U.S. and Japan. The U.S. has promised to move 8,000 marines and their dependents from Okinawa to Guam as long as they can move Futenma to the north of Okinawa. Okinawans have protested this and instead want Futenma off of their island completely. Japanese officials have said that Guam could be a potential place for this relocation.
Today the 23 member Japanese delegation toured the bases and met with the Governor during a closed door meeting. While media was not allowed inside the governor did talk afterwards saying that he re-iterated that Guam could not host additional marines and that the 8,000 that are alsready slated to come here were more than enough. Camacho says they realize that there has to be consideration of Guam's ability to host additional marines. According to the governor Japan is not necessarily focussed on moving Futenma to Guam He says "They're simply trying to say move them out of Okinawa"
On the other hand CNMI governor Benigno Fitial told the Japanese diet members that Futenma could be moved to the CNMI. Fitial said he would welcome the marines because he know that Guam can not accomodate them.
While the Governor held a closed door meeting the legislature held a very open meeting with two diet members namely Mikio Shimoji and Tomoko Abe. Both are members of the ruling social democratic party of Japan or the same party that the prime minister is a part of. After having dinner with Speaker Judi Wonpat on Wednesday Shimoji and Abe met with the legislature to receive resolution 275 that Guam lawmakers spent all day revising before passing. The resolution in essence shares many of the major concerns of Guam's local population as received through the various public hearings the legislature has held on the buildup. Abe said that both she and Shimoji would bring the resolution to Prime Minister Hatoyama.
As for Shimoji he told lawmakers that the agreement was between the United States and Japan and that because of this Japan has a responsibility to make sure that it is carried out with the interest of Guam in mind. Both Shimoji and Abe pledged to be a voice for Guam in the Japan Diet. As for the plans to move Futenma to Guam, Shimoji says he doesn't think it will happen.
Written by : Clynt Ridgell
PNC :: Legislature Passes Buildup Resolution
PNC :: Legislature Passes Buildup Resolution
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Guam - The Guam Legislature unanimously passed a resolution Thursday afternoon, which functions as the official comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement from the body.
The resolution is authored by Senator Rory Respicio, Senator Judith Guthertz, and Speaker Judi Won Pat. All other senators are co-sponsors. Resolution No. 275 outlines many concerns raised about the DEIS and makes recommendations for Congress to address long-standing local issues in light of the coming military buildup.
A delegation of Senators are planning to present the resolution personally in Washington D.C. in March.
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle worked together to agree on the language included in the resolution. Two days of working sessions were conducted, allowing the body to come to a consensus on the important document. Among the issues requested to be addressed are:
· Self-determination
· Unreturned ancestral lands
· War reparations
· Inclusion in the Supplemental Security Income program
· Exemption from the Jones Act
· Removal of caps from Medicaid and all federally mandated public assistance programs
· Full reimbursement for impact costs as a result of the Compacts of Free Association
· Cleaning-up of environmental hazards that were created or augmented by the federal government
· Full participation in economic stimulus legislation
· Establishment of a secure Guam-only visa waiver program
· Inclusion of the Philippines, Russia and China in the Visa-Waiver Program
· Reimbursement for Earned Income Tax Credits paid or owed
The Legislature also asserted a number of findings it is requesting to be honored:
* Executive and Congressional intervention mandating the Department of Defense present a revised DEIS that can be reviewed and commented on
* Reconcile inconsistencies with DoD studies and those from the General Accountability office regarding the military buidup
* Establish a Civil-Military Advisory Council
* Asses the need for an omnibus appropriations bill addressing the needs of the buildup
* Conduct a proper and accurate assessment on the additional revenue that will be collected as a result of the buildup
* Allow the reimbursement of all Medicare and Medicaid costs incurred by U.S.-accredited health care facilities in the Republic of the Facilities
* Create a full fledged U.S. Veterans Affairs Office
* Allow Guam to control its Exclusive Economic Zone
Written by : News Release
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Guam - The Guam Legislature unanimously passed a resolution Thursday afternoon, which functions as the official comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement from the body.
The resolution is authored by Senator Rory Respicio, Senator Judith Guthertz, and Speaker Judi Won Pat. All other senators are co-sponsors. Resolution No. 275 outlines many concerns raised about the DEIS and makes recommendations for Congress to address long-standing local issues in light of the coming military buildup.
A delegation of Senators are planning to present the resolution personally in Washington D.C. in March.
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle worked together to agree on the language included in the resolution. Two days of working sessions were conducted, allowing the body to come to a consensus on the important document. Among the issues requested to be addressed are:
· Self-determination
· Unreturned ancestral lands
· War reparations
· Inclusion in the Supplemental Security Income program
· Exemption from the Jones Act
· Removal of caps from Medicaid and all federally mandated public assistance programs
· Full reimbursement for impact costs as a result of the Compacts of Free Association
· Cleaning-up of environmental hazards that were created or augmented by the federal government
· Full participation in economic stimulus legislation
· Establishment of a secure Guam-only visa waiver program
· Inclusion of the Philippines, Russia and China in the Visa-Waiver Program
· Reimbursement for Earned Income Tax Credits paid or owed
The Legislature also asserted a number of findings it is requesting to be honored:
* Executive and Congressional intervention mandating the Department of Defense present a revised DEIS that can be reviewed and commented on
* Reconcile inconsistencies with DoD studies and those from the General Accountability office regarding the military buidup
* Establish a Civil-Military Advisory Council
* Asses the need for an omnibus appropriations bill addressing the needs of the buildup
* Conduct a proper and accurate assessment on the additional revenue that will be collected as a result of the buildup
* Allow the reimbursement of all Medicare and Medicaid costs incurred by U.S.-accredited health care facilities in the Republic of the Facilities
* Create a full fledged U.S. Veterans Affairs Office
* Allow Guam to control its Exclusive Economic Zone
Written by : News Release
Guam to replace Futenma?
Guam to replace Futenma?
Japan fact-finding team to review buildup progress
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 11, 2010
A 23-member Japan delegation led by Yorihisa Matsuno, deputy chief Cabinet secretary in the Japan Diet, was scheduled to arrive late last night for its fact-finding mission here.
The Japan Consulate Office on Tuesday said the group of officials was to arrive later that night.
They are here to review the progress of military buildup preparations and see whether Guam may be a suitable option to relocate the Marine Corps Futenma Air Station and more U.S. troops. The delegation is scheduled to meet with officials from the governor's office and military installations around the island.
The relocation of the base to northern Okinawa is part of a 2006 agreement between Japan and the United States to realign American troops in Japan. The agreement also calls for reducing the presence of U.S. troops in Okinawa and moving about 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents to Guam.
Some of Japan's new elected officials have said they want more time to review the U.S.-Japan agreement, with some having called for moving all U.S. troops off Okinawa completely, with Guam being one of the alternative sites.
The delegation's visit takes place as the Guam Legislature convenes today to discuss a resolution regarding concerns over the buildup.
Resolution 275, to be presented to President Obama and other ranking federal officials, calls for more time to review the military's proposed buildup plans and to have them redo certain sections of those plans.
Speaker Judith Won Pat said she hopes the Japanese delegation takes note of today's legislative discussions. She said she was disappointed that local lawmakers weren't notified of any courtesy visit by the delegation.
"We've been actively involved in public hearings regarding the buildup. We have a lot of information we can share with them," she said.
Japan fact-finding team to review buildup progress
By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • February 11, 2010
A 23-member Japan delegation led by Yorihisa Matsuno, deputy chief Cabinet secretary in the Japan Diet, was scheduled to arrive late last night for its fact-finding mission here.
The Japan Consulate Office on Tuesday said the group of officials was to arrive later that night.
They are here to review the progress of military buildup preparations and see whether Guam may be a suitable option to relocate the Marine Corps Futenma Air Station and more U.S. troops. The delegation is scheduled to meet with officials from the governor's office and military installations around the island.
The relocation of the base to northern Okinawa is part of a 2006 agreement between Japan and the United States to realign American troops in Japan. The agreement also calls for reducing the presence of U.S. troops in Okinawa and moving about 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents to Guam.
Some of Japan's new elected officials have said they want more time to review the U.S.-Japan agreement, with some having called for moving all U.S. troops off Okinawa completely, with Guam being one of the alternative sites.
The delegation's visit takes place as the Guam Legislature convenes today to discuss a resolution regarding concerns over the buildup.
Resolution 275, to be presented to President Obama and other ranking federal officials, calls for more time to review the military's proposed buildup plans and to have them redo certain sections of those plans.
Speaker Judith Won Pat said she hopes the Japanese delegation takes note of today's legislative discussions. She said she was disappointed that local lawmakers weren't notified of any courtesy visit by the delegation.
"We've been actively involved in public hearings regarding the buildup. We have a lot of information we can share with them," she said.
Resolution sends DEIS feedback to Congress
Resolution sends DEIS feedback to Congress
Posted: Feb 10, 2010 3:51 PM
Updated: Feb 10, 2010 3:57 PM
by Nick Delgado
Guam - Senator Jim Webb's visit to Guam and Japan comes just in time as lawmakers head into session tomorrow to discuss Resolution 275. The measure would express to Congress the sentiments of island residents' on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement.
Lawmakers held a series of interactive town meetings on the Draft EIS allowing residents to call or come in and testify on the document. Lawmakers have been compiling all the feedback they received to present to congress. Senator Rory Respicio said, "That resolution is going to be the basis as to how we can establish some kind of common ground and how we're going address this buildup. And common ground include that the military has to live within its own footprint and fund this buildup, they cannot impact our culture and our environment.
Session is scheduled to get underway tomorrow at two o'clock in the afternoon.
Posted: Feb 10, 2010 3:51 PM
Updated: Feb 10, 2010 3:57 PM
by Nick Delgado
Guam - Senator Jim Webb's visit to Guam and Japan comes just in time as lawmakers head into session tomorrow to discuss Resolution 275. The measure would express to Congress the sentiments of island residents' on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement.
Lawmakers held a series of interactive town meetings on the Draft EIS allowing residents to call or come in and testify on the document. Lawmakers have been compiling all the feedback they received to present to congress. Senator Rory Respicio said, "That resolution is going to be the basis as to how we can establish some kind of common ground and how we're going address this buildup. And common ground include that the military has to live within its own footprint and fund this buildup, they cannot impact our culture and our environment.
Session is scheduled to get underway tomorrow at two o'clock in the afternoon.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Senators compile feedback on DEIS
Senators compile feedback on DEIS
Posted: Feb 09, 2010 3:29 PM
Updated: Feb 09, 2010 3:29 PM
by Nick Delgado
Guam - Lawmakers spent the day finalizing the amended Resolution 275. The agenda for Thursday's session is fairly short, as senators are only expected to discuss two resolutions and possibly address a few confirmation nominations.
Resolution 275 would present residents' sentiments regarding the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the military buildup. Discussions are also expected to center on Resolution 160, which requests that Congress grant Guam full voting rights in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Senators are scheduled to go into session at two o'clock on Thursday.
Posted: Feb 09, 2010 3:29 PM
Updated: Feb 09, 2010 3:29 PM
by Nick Delgado
Guam - Lawmakers spent the day finalizing the amended Resolution 275. The agenda for Thursday's session is fairly short, as senators are only expected to discuss two resolutions and possibly address a few confirmation nominations.
Resolution 275 would present residents' sentiments regarding the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the military buildup. Discussions are also expected to center on Resolution 160, which requests that Congress grant Guam full voting rights in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Senators are scheduled to go into session at two o'clock on Thursday.
Joint caucus held on 2 resolutions
Joint caucus held on 2 resolutions
Tuesday, 09 February 2010 03:49
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SPEAKER Judi Won Pat did not call session yesterday as expected. The legislature instead had a joint caucus to discuss Resolutions 160 and 275, which both pertain to the relationship between Guam and the federal government and the issues that cause a concern for the local community.
Won Pat, who will call session at 9 a.m. on Thursday, said after yesterday’s joint caucus, she expects both resolutions to get amendment proposals from Republican and Democratic senators.
Won Pat said lawmakers will need a couple of days to iron out the differences so that everyone will sign and support both resolutions.
Introduced by Sen. Frank Blas Jr. with co-sponsors Senator Tina Muna Barnes and Speaker Won Pat, Resolution 160 requests that the U.S. s Congress acknowledge the sacrifices of the people of Guam and to grant Guam full voting rights in the U.S. House of Representatives for all matters relating to and affecting Guam and the military buildup.
At an earlier meeting on the draft environmental impact statement for the military buildup, Sen. Rory Respicio confronted Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo about her supposed representation of the federal government.
“I wanted her to clarify that statement. She said that she represented the people of Guam and not the federal government,” said Respicio.
However, vice speaker B.J. Cruz has reservations about Bordallo’s sentiments, saying he had a problem with Resolution 160 because he felt that the congresswoman seems to be representing the federal government rather than the people of Guam with respect to the military buildup and the draft environmental impact statement.
Resolution 275 introduced by Respicio and co-sponsored by Won Pat, Sens. Judi Guthertz, Adolpho Palacios Sr., Telo Taitague, Tina Muna Barnes, Ben Pangelinan and Tom Ada, would present to President Barack Obama and to the U.S. Congress, the sentiments expressed by the people of Guam relative to the draft impact study.
The resolution also reiterates that Guam’s agenda of priority concerns on federal-territorial issues must be addressed concurrently with the military buildup.
Tuesday, 09 February 2010 03:49
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SPEAKER Judi Won Pat did not call session yesterday as expected. The legislature instead had a joint caucus to discuss Resolutions 160 and 275, which both pertain to the relationship between Guam and the federal government and the issues that cause a concern for the local community.
Won Pat, who will call session at 9 a.m. on Thursday, said after yesterday’s joint caucus, she expects both resolutions to get amendment proposals from Republican and Democratic senators.
Won Pat said lawmakers will need a couple of days to iron out the differences so that everyone will sign and support both resolutions.
Introduced by Sen. Frank Blas Jr. with co-sponsors Senator Tina Muna Barnes and Speaker Won Pat, Resolution 160 requests that the U.S. s Congress acknowledge the sacrifices of the people of Guam and to grant Guam full voting rights in the U.S. House of Representatives for all matters relating to and affecting Guam and the military buildup.
At an earlier meeting on the draft environmental impact statement for the military buildup, Sen. Rory Respicio confronted Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo about her supposed representation of the federal government.
“I wanted her to clarify that statement. She said that she represented the people of Guam and not the federal government,” said Respicio.
However, vice speaker B.J. Cruz has reservations about Bordallo’s sentiments, saying he had a problem with Resolution 160 because he felt that the congresswoman seems to be representing the federal government rather than the people of Guam with respect to the military buildup and the draft environmental impact statement.
Resolution 275 introduced by Respicio and co-sponsored by Won Pat, Sens. Judi Guthertz, Adolpho Palacios Sr., Telo Taitague, Tina Muna Barnes, Ben Pangelinan and Tom Ada, would present to President Barack Obama and to the U.S. Congress, the sentiments expressed by the people of Guam relative to the draft impact study.
The resolution also reiterates that Guam’s agenda of priority concerns on federal-territorial issues must be addressed concurrently with the military buildup.
Sen Judi Guthertz with Ray Gibson
Sen Judi Guthertz with Ray Gibson
Monday, 08 February 2010
Interview between Ray Gibson and Senator Judi Guthertz about Resolutions 160 and 275 which will be debated at the 30th Guam Legislature today. Senator Guthertz said the resolutions deal with the military buildup and federal relations issues. They then talked about the new proposed future changes to the military buildup with the advertisement by the Army for the placement of High Speed Vessels at Apra Harbor. They then talked about the issues beween GPD Chief Suba and Senator Adolpho Palacios.
If the player does not work click here to download the entire podcast.
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/stories/k57podcasts/feb10/100208_081827.mp3
Written by : Bob Gaeth
Monday, 08 February 2010
Interview between Ray Gibson and Senator Judi Guthertz about Resolutions 160 and 275 which will be debated at the 30th Guam Legislature today. Senator Guthertz said the resolutions deal with the military buildup and federal relations issues. They then talked about the new proposed future changes to the military buildup with the advertisement by the Army for the placement of High Speed Vessels at Apra Harbor. They then talked about the issues beween GPD Chief Suba and Senator Adolpho Palacios.
If the player does not work click here to download the entire podcast.
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/stories/k57podcasts/feb10/100208_081827.mp3
Written by : Bob Gaeth
Session will focus on buildup
Session will focus on buildup
Posted: Feb 08, 2010 10:11 AM
Updated: Feb 08, 2010 10:11 AM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
Guam - Lawmakers head into session today and are expected to discuss Resolution 275, which seeks to restate Guam's agenda of priority concerns on federal and territorial issues that must be addressed concurrently with the military buildup. The measure would present the agenda to President Barack Obama and members of Congress.
As well, it would also include the sentiments expressed by the people of Guam relative to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the military buildup.
Posted: Feb 08, 2010 10:11 AM
Updated: Feb 08, 2010 10:11 AM
by Sabrina Salas Matanane
Guam - Lawmakers head into session today and are expected to discuss Resolution 275, which seeks to restate Guam's agenda of priority concerns on federal and territorial issues that must be addressed concurrently with the military buildup. The measure would present the agenda to President Barack Obama and members of Congress.
As well, it would also include the sentiments expressed by the people of Guam relative to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the military buildup.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Panel to take Guam concerns to D.C.
Panel to take Guam concerns to D.C.
Tuesday, 26 January 2010 05:15
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SPEAKER Judi Won Pat will head a Guam delegation to Washington D.C. to bring the local community’s perspectives on the military buildup to members of Congress.
The delegation will include members of the legislature.
Won Pat said she wants to know if public comments will make a difference in the final draft of the environmental impact statement and if the people of Guam be given the opportunity to review and comment on the final report.
The traveling time is crucial, said Won Pat. “We want to leave in February because Congress is still in session and will recess on the 12th and we want to be there before that because if we wait, it'll be too late. There won't be anybody to present our case to,” she said.
Won Pat said she and her colleagues who attended the public hearings on the draft environmental impact statement were deeply troubled by the overwhelmingly negative comments from those who had testified.
Another question lawmakers will ask Congress is whether the people of Guam will have the opportunity to present testimonies after the public comment period ends Feb. 18 on the final draft study. “And nobody can answer that question for us. Not the Matrix Group, not the Joint Guam Program Office,” Won Pat said.
“We we're going to put these oral testimonies on DVD, because we want them to hear and feel the sentiments of the people. They need to understand how frustrating it is to our people,” she added.
The other goal is to present a legislative resolution that will reveal the major concerns and the local community’s sentiments about the buildup, Won Pat said.
Won Pat said she intends to call a one-day session to discuss Resolution 275, which identifies specific elements of great concern that were expressed during the public hearings hosted by Joint Guam Program Office and Gov. Felix Camacho.
The delegation will also present to Congress Resolution 160, which expresses opposition to the possible exercise of eminent domain power for acquisition of public lands.
The speaker's open invitation to her colleagues has garnered interest of Vice Speaker BJ Cruz, Senators Rory Respicio, Judi Guthertz, Frank Blas Jr., who have committed to travel to the nation’s capital as part of the legislative delegation.
Won Pat said she hopes that a majority of her colleagues will join her because now is the time to send out a big message to Congress that “we're not going to take this sitting down. Whatever we can do, we'll do. We must,” said the Speaker. “The governor talks about One vision. One future. One Guam. Let us make it so.”
Tuesday, 26 January 2010 05:15
by Therese Hart | Variety News Staff
SPEAKER Judi Won Pat will head a Guam delegation to Washington D.C. to bring the local community’s perspectives on the military buildup to members of Congress.
The delegation will include members of the legislature.
Won Pat said she wants to know if public comments will make a difference in the final draft of the environmental impact statement and if the people of Guam be given the opportunity to review and comment on the final report.
The traveling time is crucial, said Won Pat. “We want to leave in February because Congress is still in session and will recess on the 12th and we want to be there before that because if we wait, it'll be too late. There won't be anybody to present our case to,” she said.
Won Pat said she and her colleagues who attended the public hearings on the draft environmental impact statement were deeply troubled by the overwhelmingly negative comments from those who had testified.
Another question lawmakers will ask Congress is whether the people of Guam will have the opportunity to present testimonies after the public comment period ends Feb. 18 on the final draft study. “And nobody can answer that question for us. Not the Matrix Group, not the Joint Guam Program Office,” Won Pat said.
“We we're going to put these oral testimonies on DVD, because we want them to hear and feel the sentiments of the people. They need to understand how frustrating it is to our people,” she added.
The other goal is to present a legislative resolution that will reveal the major concerns and the local community’s sentiments about the buildup, Won Pat said.
Won Pat said she intends to call a one-day session to discuss Resolution 275, which identifies specific elements of great concern that were expressed during the public hearings hosted by Joint Guam Program Office and Gov. Felix Camacho.
The delegation will also present to Congress Resolution 160, which expresses opposition to the possible exercise of eminent domain power for acquisition of public lands.
The speaker's open invitation to her colleagues has garnered interest of Vice Speaker BJ Cruz, Senators Rory Respicio, Judi Guthertz, Frank Blas Jr., who have committed to travel to the nation’s capital as part of the legislative delegation.
Won Pat said she hopes that a majority of her colleagues will join her because now is the time to send out a big message to Congress that “we're not going to take this sitting down. Whatever we can do, we'll do. We must,” said the Speaker. “The governor talks about One vision. One future. One Guam. Let us make it so.”
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