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Letter: Reconstruction must be open

Friday, Dec. 5, 2003 | 6:01 a.m.

WEEKEND EDITION Dec. 6 - 7, 2003

Upon signing the $87 billion emergency supplemental bill to fund military and reconstruction costs in Iraq, President Bush released a statement announcing the Inspector General in Iraq "shall refrain from initiating, carrying out or completing an audit or investigation or from issuing a subpoena which requires access to sensitive operation plans" because of reasons of national security.

The role of the Inspector General in Iraq is to oversee the reconstruction process, not military operations. It is critical Congress exercise its oversight authority to ensure that the rebuilding of Iraq is conducted wisely, fairly and with as much transparency as possible.

President Bush is hurting confidence in the reconstruction process by continuing to foster an environment of secrecy. We need an Inspector General to ensure those funds aren't being wasted or going into the pockets of corrupt contractors.

JAMES J. MAHER

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