John B. Breaux: “I rise to discuss with the distinguished chairman of the subcommittee, Senator Gregg, the distinguished ranking member…”

“I rise to discuss with the distinguished chairman of the subcommittee, Senator Gregg, the distinguished ranking member of the subcommittee, Senator Hollings, and my distinguished colleague from Louisiana, Senator Landrieu, an important safety issue facing Jefferson Parish, LA. As my colleagues know, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office is one of the most progressive and notable law enforcement offices in the country. Unfortunately, they have been forced to use a conventional 450 MHz UHF radio system that is far too small and antiquated to handle current traffic volumes and to provide the secure and varied communications capabilities necessary in today's law enforcement environment. Replacing this old system with a new 800 MHz digital system is necessary to ensure the safety of its residents and guests, and to enhance the operational efficiencies of the sheriff's office. Hurricane Danny recently demonstrated the dire need for this new communications system. Grand Isle, off the southern-most part of Jefferson Parish, is a barrier island with approximately 2,500 residents. There is, however, only one road leading from Grand Isle to the mainland. When it appeared this road was at risk because of Danny's 70-75 mph winds and high tides, the sheriff's office decided to evacuate the island. Unfortunately, before the island could be safely evacuated, one of the radio towers was damaged and rendered inoperable by the hurricane.…”