Press Releases
"It is extremely shameful and troubling to grant a visa to an activist who represents the Communist Castro regime, and this raises concerns about the Obama administration's decision-making process when it comes to granting visas and its efforts to improve human rights. The Cuban people continue to suffer and this decision simply feeds into the hands of a corrupt and authoritarian regime."
As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Bilirakis has been instrumental in promoting democracy and the protection of human rights in Cuba and throughout the world.
"This is a historic moment and opportunity for the people of Egypt, and it is my hope that any future administration will value and protect basic human rights, especially the rights of religious minorities such as the Coptic Christians, who have suffered for so long under an oppressive Egypt."
Last year, Bilirakis successfully led a push to place conditions on the $1.3 billion in annual aid the United States provides Egypt. This money has been used by the Egyptian military to persecute and attack Coptic Christians and other religious minorities.
The fair, at Spartan Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Avenue in New Port Richey, runs from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
"While there have been signs that our economy is beginning to turn around, many people are still struggling and searching for meaningful employment," Bilirakis said. "This fair will help put those seeking work in touch with employers and job creators in the Tampa Bay area."
To date, 40 employers are confirmed, and range in opportunities, including the FBI, Bright House Networks, Pasco County, the nation's military branches, and many more.
Bilirakis and Castor have offered a budget neutral amendment that will be included in the National Defense Authorization Act, which the House will vote on this Friday. The amendment would increase the number of authorized National Guard Civil Support Teams from 55 to 57, keeping the Clearwater team intact.
A CST is trained to detect weapons of mass destruction – including any type of chemical, biological, or nuclear incident – and then help local emergency responders take steps to ensure public safety.
On Saturday, May 19, 2012, Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Palm Harbor), Vice Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, will host his annual Military & Veterans Resource Fair and appreciation event. The fair, which has become a popular event for area veterans, provides services and resources for servicemembers and veterans.
"I have made it a priority to be an advocate for veterans and their families in the United States Congress and we must ensure veterans receive the benefits they have earned through their service to our nation," Bilirakis said.
"I applaud the efforts of the intelligence and counter terrorism community, the CIA, the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security for thwarting this potential disaster," Bilirakis said. "This is a reminder that there are people in this world who will stop at nothing to harm us and disrupt our way of life. We must remain vigilant in our national security and defense efforts to combat more sophisticated attacks."
The hearing, titled "First Responder Technologies: Ensuring a Prioritized Approach for Homeland Security Research and Development," will address the needs of state and local first responders, and will examine how to best enable them to assist during emergencies.
"Egregious injustices, such as those suffered by Chen, are unacceptable in a civilized world and must end today. The U.S. Administration must support Chen's freedom, as failing to do so would send a negative message to those fighting for basic human rights around the world."
"We must build a solid foundation for economic growth, and that begins with improving our nation's fiscal situation," Bilirakis said."These events will give local taxpayers an inside look at the budget and let them use their priorities to create a model federal budget."
As leader of the largest port in Florida, both in terms of cargo tonnage and land area, Wainio will address the vital role ports play in fueling local, state and national economies.
"As our economy continues to recover, ports will play a significant role in the country's return to prosperity," Bilirakis said. "Tampa Bay is lucky to have such a pivotal port in its backyard, and we must ensure that it continues to serve as a local economic driver and as a gateway to national and international commerce."