COAST GUARD OPERATIONS STRETCHED THIN SINCE SEPT. 11 ATTACKS

COAST GUARD OPERATIONS STRETCHED THIN SINCE SEPT. 11 ATTACKS    Leaders of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere and Fisheries believe the Coast Guard is due an increase in funding and resources to meet increased seaport security measures.
   “Clearly, unprecedented times call for unprecedented measures, and that means we need to identify the weaknesses and implement a strategy to give us a Coast Guard that reflects the realities of the 21st century,” said Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine, a member of the subcommittee. She spoke at a hearing on the role of the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in strengthening security against maritime threats on Thursday.
   Adm. James M. Loy told the subcommittee that since the Sept. 11 terrorist attack, the Coast Guard had more than 55 cutters, 42 planes and hundreds of small boats patrolling domestic ports and coastlines. It also called up 2,600 reservists for duty.
   “This posture is not sustainable … nor is it efficient and effective use of resources,” Loy said. “Our people are working long hours, other important missions are being curtailed and almost 30 percent of our reservists are on active duty. I am working with my operational commanders to determine ways to sustain this high tempo of operations.”
   The Coast Guard has also had to cut back on its duties in the protection of fisheries, illegal immigration, and buoy tending, which the subcommittee views essential to the economy and navigation safety.