Harris Calls for Delay and Further Review of Dubai Ports World Acquisition

Requests Review of CFIUS Process; Increased Security Screening of Port Managers and Owners.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - U.S. Representative Katherine Harris (R-Fla.), a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, today called on the Bush Administration to delay and further review the Dubai Ports (DP) World Acquisition. Congresswoman Harris expressed concerns for the current process of the Committee on Financial Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and the need for review of this process in a post-9/11 climate.

"In the aftermath of September 11 terrorist attacks, the nature of national security threats has dramatically changed and the manner in which all government officials approach their responsibilities has changed as well. I strongly urge the President to delay and further examine the Dubai Ports World Acquisition.

"Out-dated policy can not be an excuse for our failure to protect America. We must act so that policy is in line with our current security threats. Securing our national security is an ever-evolving process that demands constant attention of government entities," said Congresswoman Harris.

"I will support legislative efforts to place an emergency hold on the implementation of the Dubai Ports World acquisition. Further, we must examine and modernize the CFIUS process to reflect the present day homeland security needs," said Congresswoman Harris.

Additionally, Congresswoman Harris expressed concerns for the current standards for security screening of port managers and owners.

"While our immediate concern is to halt the Dubai Ports World acquisition, we must further examine vulnerabilities in port security. I support background check requirements for port workers, including management and owners. Anyone with access to a MTSA (Maritime Transportation Security Act) regulated facility should undergo uniform security screenings," said Congresswoman Harris.

Currently, The Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) does not specifically require background checks for port employees, although a facility may choose to include such a requirement as part of their security plan that MTSA requires to be filed with the Coast Guard. Under the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), once implemented there will be no background check requirement for management or owners, who do not require unescorted access to a facility.