Mark Souder: “today the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight unanimously approved the report of the Subcommittee on Criminal…”

“today the Committee on Government Reform and Oversight unanimously approved the report of the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, Drug Policy, and Human Resources titled ``Federal Law Enforcement at the Borders and Ports of Entry,'' the most comprehensive report ever on our Nation's border security. As chairman of this subcommittee, I would like to discuss some of the findings and how I feel they impact the debate on the resolution regarding Iraq that is before us. There are 130 official ports of entry on the northern border at which it is legal to cross, whether by vehicle or foot. There are an additional over 300 unofficial crossing areas along the northern border, roads which are unmonitored and allow for individuals or groups to cross undetected. Near Blaine, Washington, the only barrier is a narrow ditch easily stepped over and containing no water between two roads. In northwest North Dakota, it is even easier: It is flat for miles, and there is no ditch. As for the southern border, it is not exactly known as impenetrable. If we cannot stop tens of thousands of illegal immigrants, it does not breed a lot of confidence that we can stop all terrorists. Our subcommittee has also begun to study port security. The challenges in our largest harbors, Long Beach and Los Angeles, are overwhelming. But by the time a nuclear device has slipped into L.A., we are already in deep trouble.”