"The Deepwater program is essential to replace our nation's aging fleet of ships and helicopters that make it difficult for the Coast Guard to operate effectively," said Senator Collins. "We must provide the Coast Guard with the resources it needs to balance its expanded homeland security role with its traditional search and rescue duties. I believe we must increase funding for the Deepwater project to accomplish the goals in half the time of the current plan, in order to truly ensure that the Coast Guard is adequately equipped to keep our nation's coastal interests safe."
Senator Collins has urged the Senate Budget Committee to increase funding for the Deepwater project in order to complete new acquisitions for the Coast Guard within 10 years, rather than the current plan of 22 years. The accelerated project would save an estimated $4 billion in acquisition costs and generate almost one million additional mission hours dedicated to homeland security.
Senator Collins also discussed with Admiral Collins the concerns expressed by Peaks Island residents about the impact of new homeland security measures on ferry operations and their quality of life.
The Admiral assured Senator Collins that the local Coast Guard in Maine will continue to work closely with the maritime industry to "balance efficiency, safety, and security." He said the regulations for ferry security are not intended to mirror the measures in effect at airports. He pledged that the Coast Guard will consider the unique characteristics of each ferry terminal and "let common practicality and common sense prevail" as it develops its security plans and requirements.