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by
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman Regarding the Creation of a Department of Homeland Security
June 6, 2002

"The decision by President Bush to create the Department of Homeland Security is a bold and visionary move that will better coordinate and protect our country against potential threats. The security and protection of our nation is of the highest priority and I fully support the President's decision.

"The President has been steadfast in his actions and leadership since the tragic events of September 11 th and this proposal will continue to bolster America's homeland security coordination, planning, response and management.

"It is critical that we continue to work together as government agencies to protect America from terrorists. In particular, we must protect our food and agriculture supply against any threat that could harm consumers or our farm sector.

"While we have a strong system of protections at our borders and ports of entry that helps prevent the entry of pests and diseases entering our country, in this new age of threats, it is critical that we enhance the protection of America's food and agriculture supply.

"I look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with Governor Ridge and the Congress on how the proposed Department of Homeland Security can best protect American agriculture, particularly as it relates to the further strengthening of programs at our borders and ports of entry that are so vital to our food and farm sector."

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