Governor Visits Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Assistant Secretary of Defense
Governor Visits Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Assistant Secretary of Defense
Governor John Baldacci today visited Portsmouth Naval Shipyard with Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense Paul McHale. Members of the Maine Congressional Delegation and New Hampshire Governor John Lynch joined Governor Baldacci and the Assistant Secretary for a tour of the facility.
Following the tour, Governor Baldacci signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard regarding mutual cooperation in the enforcement of safety and security zones created by the Coast Guard in Maine waters. The agreement empowers state and local law enforcement officers who have authority to enforce state criminal laws to make arrests in situations that were previously preempted by federal law.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard currently hosts three U.S. Coast Guard cutters and is collaborating with the Coast Guard to provide additional protection for the base, area ports, and the surrounding communities. The Governor noted, "Given the strategic location of the shipyard, in the geographic center of the northeast region, this is a vital asset with the ability to provide rapid emergency response support to communities across the region. The agreement signed today greatly enhances the ability of State officers and the Coast Guard to work together to ensure maritime security."
Governor Baldacci also spoke in support of Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process continues. The Governor recognized the Congressional Delegation for their work to preserve the shipyard, and he lauded the partnership of labor and management at the shipyard that has resulted in a reduction of operating costs. "The quality workforce and cooperation between labor and management contributes to making this shipyard the most efficient and effective facility," said the Governor. "This is a viable shipyard that is necessary to our national security."
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