Rep. Kirkpatrick On Virtual Fence Delays: "The Time For Excuses Is Over"

Statement

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick today released a statement in response to recent reports on the continued setbacks that have stalled the SBInet program, which is designed to create a "virtual fence" along the entire length of the U.S.-Mexico border. The Congresswoman, Arizona's only representative on the House Committee on Homeland Security, gave the following statement:

"The virtual fence could be a valuable tool to help the Border Patrol crack down on cross-border smuggling, but it is obvious the program is badly off track. We have been told again and again that the roadblocks have been cleared and the project is back underway, and again and again we have seen little actual progress.

"With the growing threats of Mexican drug cartel violence and global terrorism, it is more important than ever to put a comprehensive strategy in place to secure our borders, and I have introduced legislation to achieve this goal. I firmly believe that setting up the virtual fence must be a key part of that strategy, but it has to be done right. The time for excuses is over -- moving this project forward requires real answers.

"I know the Department of Homeland Security is committed to addressing the delays, technological failures and cost overruns that have dogged this program from the beginning. They must continue to work to identify where it has fallen short so that they can finally produce results."

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