the Shooting at the  Santos Linguisa. Factory

 Statement                              by

                 
                     Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman
                   onthe Shooting at the  Santos Linguisa. Factory

                                
                                
                         June 22, 2000


     "I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting of
two employees of USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service and one employee of
the California Department of Food and Agriculture yesterday.  I extend my
deepest sympathies to their families and co-workers.  

     "Every day thousands of USDA inspectors work to ensure the safety of
America's food supply.  They perform an extraordinary public service, one that
is essential to protecting public health and safety.  We often take their hard
work and diligence for granted, never expecting them to face danger in the
line of duty.  

     "USDA is cooperating with local and federal law enforcement agencies as
they investigate this horrific tragedy."  
   
                                
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