Bremer Warns Senators of Terrorism Risks of Iraq Denied Rebuilding Funds

[Judi Lynn]

Bremer Warns Senators of Terrorism Risks of Iraq Denied Rebuilding Funds
By Ken Guggenheim Associated Press Writer
Published: Sep 22, 2003




WASHINGTON (AP) - Iraq could become a haven for terrorists if the United States does not provide money needed to help rebuild the country, the U.S. administrator told senators Monday as he urged them to approve an $87 billion spending request.

"If terrorists cannot find a congenial state sponsor, they thrive in chaotic environments with little or no effective government," L. Paul Bremer told the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Bremer's appearance before the committee began a weeklong push by the Bush administration for approval of its $87 billion request for Iraq. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn. said he hopes to begin debate on the Senate floor next week.

Bremer was defending the part of the request receiving the most scrutiny from lawmakers: $20.3 billion for Iraqi reconstruction. This includes $5.1 billion for training Iraqi security personnel, $5.7 billion for rebuilding the electricity system, $3.7 billion for water treatment and other public works and $2.1 billion for oil facilities. (snip/...)

http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGAOF6DWWKD.html