Thomas Daschle: “let me make a couple of additional points on the agreement we have reached with regard to modifying the original Dole…”

“let me make a couple of additional points on the agreement we have reached with regard to modifying the original Dole bill. A lot of people deserve recognition this afternoon for their contribution. I think on our side there are two Senators who certainly deserve special recognition for the contribution and leadership they have shown. Of course, I refer to Senators Dodd and Kennedy. First on children's issues and, second, on work. On a number of the legislative provisions relating to work and job skills, they have done a remarkable job over the years and have certainly shown, again, their leadership, and the tremendous effort they have put forth to allow us the progress that we have made this week on welfare reform. But, in particular, on child care itself, it would not have been possible were it not for their work and their effort. I applaud them and publicly want to thank them for all of the help and leadership that they have given on that issue. Let me also say we will have some time to talk about the overall agreement next week. I intend to vote for this bill. I do so with mixed feelings, frankly. I think there are many things in the bill we can cite with some satisfaction. There are many concerns that I have, as well. I hope as people take a look at the overall context of what it is we have attempted to do, that they appreciate the difficulty that we have under any circumstances to come to agreement and to actually accomplish as much as we have done here.”