[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 118 (Tuesday, September 9, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1694]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            TRAGEDY IN HAITI

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 9, 1997

  Mr. HASTINGS of FLorida. Mr. Speaker, this week there was another 
terrible tragedy on the small island of Haiti.
  An overcroweded ferry sank just offshore and hundreds of people were 
killed. There are conflicting reports about the number of deaths, with 
estimates ranging from 300 to 800. The true figure may never be known.
  But what is known is that basic safety functions, which may have 
prevented many deaths, were ignored. Although the ferry had only been 
in service for 10 days, there were no lifejackets on board, doors were 
bolted shut, and the passenger load was above legal limits. Had any of 
these factors been different, hundreds of families would not be in 
mourning today.
  I extend my most sincere condolences to the families of the deceased 
and all of the Haitian people. I am pleased that the U.S. Government 
has announced that we would provide some assistance to the families of 
the deceased, although there is scant solace to provide to a child 
whose parent is gone.
  My only hope is that ferry operators, not only in Haiti, but around 
the world, will learn from this terrible tragedy, and observe the 
safety laws which are designed to prevent these kinds of tragedies.

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