NEWARK LIBERTY AIRPORT NEEDS SECURITY SCRUTINY

Newark-Liberty Airport Needs Security Scrutiny

I have flown several times since September 11, 2001, and have seen obvious security at passenger check-in. Anyone who has flown could agree that they have been subjected to search of their carry-on baggage, and have had any electronics scrutinized, as well as removal of their shoes.

Last week, it was revealed that Newark Liberty International Airport has failed, for the second straight year to meet the deadline for electronically screening all checked luggage for explosives. I applaud the efforts of Senator Corzine in bringing everyone’s attention to this important issue. The bomb-detection machines for check in luggage are considered the most effective way to test for explosives. Individuals familiar with the situation stated that manpower is the problem.

Safety and security are a top priority, and since Sept. 11, even more so. We no longer have the luxury of being lax in checking what is loaded onto airlines. Guidelines were set into place by Congress, and Newark Liberty was one of the airports selected to pioneer technologies to detect for dangerous substances.

Last session I sponsored a resolution requiring the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), which oversees Newark Liberty Airport, to make annual reports concerning security measures to the Assembly Homeland Security and State Preparedness Committee. I recognized the vital role that the PANYNJ plays in the transportation or millions of people and the economy of New Jersey, the nation and the world.

Tuesday it was made public that the company hired for security of the regions airports, bridges and tunnel, Haynes Security, will face conspiracy, bribery and theft charges. Haynes hired thousands of individuals without performing the required background checks. In the process, four convicts were hired.  The owner of the company is accused bribing clients to look the other way. This information follows nearly a year of scrutiny by state and federal investigators.

This is no longer the peaceful world that we imagined prior to September 11, 2001. We need to take the required precautions. This has been done in other countries around the world for years, now it is our turn to follow their lead. People will travel for business, pleasure or necessity. We need to assure them that their sense of security is not ignorance.