Doug Bereuter: “I rise in strong support, of course, of H. Res. 297, a resolution addressing the devastating earthquake that occurred…”

“I rise in strong support, of course, of H. Res. 297, a resolution addressing the devastating earthquake that occurred last week in Taiwan and literally decimated major parts of the island. It has become an all too familiar sight: many thousands of casualties, an unknown number missing, hundreds of thousands of homeless, buildings collapsed, roads destroyed, village-destroying mud slides, dams cracked and in danger of failing. The people of Taiwan will no doubt persevere. They are strong and they are courageous. They have faced adversity before. But it is only appropriate that this body comment on this tragic natural catastrophe and pledge our concern and empathy and assistance. This does extend the sympathy of the House of Representatives and the American people to the people of Taiwan. It notes with approval the assistance being provided under the auspices of the Agency for International Development. Within a few hours of the earthquake, U.S. rescue teams from Fairfax County, Virginia, and Miami, Florida, for example--I am sure there are many others--were en route to provide assistance.”