WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on nominations.

 

 

Mr. Erroll G. Southers, to be Assistant Secretary of the Transportation Security Administration, at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

 

 

Dr. Patrick Gallagher, to be Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, at the U.S. Department of Commerce

 

Dr. Elizabeth M. Robinson, to be Chief Financial Officer, at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

 

Mr. Paul K. Martin, to be Inspector General, at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration

 

“It is always very gratifying when individuals, such as our highly qualified nominees today, choose to answer the call of our President to further his or her public service.  Mr. Southers’ work on public safety and counterterrorism matters at the federal, state, and local level will be an asset to the TSA.  His success is vital not only to our nation’s transportation system, but also to its economic livelihood.  Dr. Gallagher’s extensive experience as a public servant and in scientific research will provide NIST with the leadership it needs as it faces critical national issues ahead.  Dr. Robinson brings incredible knowledge of strategic planning and financial management and Mr. Martin’s work with the Department of Justice will be a key asset to NASA. I am proud of the progress we have made in recent months, and I want to thank my colleagues for working swiftly to get these talented public servants where they belong—on the job for the American people.”

 

“To protect our transportation systems, it is critical to work with all of our partners, including other federal agencies, state, local, and tribal governments, private industry, our international partners, and most important of all, the traveling public.  By engaging these partners, we will more effectively protect the nation’s vital transportation systems to ensure the free flow of U.S. commerce and the free movement of the American people.”

“The President has emphasized that our economic prosperity depends upon our ability to lead the world in innovation.  It is the foundation for creating high quality jobs for all Americans. Secretary Locke has focused the work of the Department of Commerce on this critical task to put the country back to work and build the foundations for long term economic prosperity.  NIST is a key part of these strategies.  Its mission is uniquely focused to provide critical expertise to address these particular challenges.  In my view, NIST has never been in a more important position, and it has never been so important to the country that NIST succeed.  Building upon the foundations of its talented work force, its world leading capabilities, and its legacy of working closely with industry and other stakeholders, NIST is ready to meet these challenges.”

“The position of Chief Financial Officer in any organization carries a tremendous responsibility as the pivotal point where budget, accountability, evaluation, and sound fiscal management all reside.  Moreover, NASA has faced challenges in the performance of its financial and project management functions that must be addressed as quickly as possible.  If confirmed, I would build upon the progress that NASA has already made, while continuing to improve the management, performance, and results for the Agency.”

“From my vantage point outside of NASA, I see three primary challenges facing the NASA OIG in the months and years ahead.  The OIG must conduct timely audits and reviews of NASA’s top management.  The OIG must maintain a professional, cooperative, yet independent working relationship with NASA managers and employees; and the OIG must help to ensure the integrity of NASA programs and personnel and the proper use of taxpayer funds through criminal and administrative investigations of allegations of waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement.”

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