[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 155 (Thursday, October 30, 2003)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E2176] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TITLE II--COMPACTS OF FREE ASSOCIATION WITH THE FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA AND THE REPUBLIC OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS ______ speech of HON. DIANE E. WATSON of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, October 28, 2003 Ms. WATSON. Madam Speaker, President Clinton gave me the privilege to represent the American people as Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia. I have a deep respect for the Island nations, and I am pleased that we have passed the new compact legislation out of the House. Although most of the contentious issues in the compact have been addressed, the funding allocated for education concerns me. The RMI and FSM children have only just begun to benefit from the establishment of an integrated education system. I am very pleased to know that authorization for educational programs is included in the bill. In my former profession of teaching I have witnessed the impact of early structured education. Young students are much better equipped to enter the educational system when they are exposed to education at an early age. The educational appropriations that Chairman Regula has offered to support is critical to keep effective programs in place. I also strongly support those provisions in this compact that provide for continued Pell grant eligibility for the FAS. It will bolster the ability of the FAS to cultivate education. The elimination of Pell grant assistance would have decimated the college system in the FAS altogether. A large portion of the operating funds for the College of Micronesia are obtained through Pell grants. One other important area that I would like to point out is the reinstatement of FEMA assistance. It has been placed back into the Compact for infrastructure purposes and major catastrophes. USAID is not equipped to deal with all of the problems that arise on small islands nor do they have the ready response to help in a timely fashion. As we move forward with our unique relationship with the FAS I hope the U.S. Congress will be supportive and receptive to the needs of our friends. In conclusion, I urge my colleagues to understand the importance of the FAS. I support this bill and look to endorse the final product as the other body considers the Compact. ____________________