VA chief tells Congress he's 'mad as hell'

[sabra]

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-05-25-veteran-id-theft_x.htm

VA chief tells Congress he's 'mad as hell'

WASHINGTON (AP) — Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson said Thursday he is striving to find out why it took his agency two weeks to reveal the theft of personal data from 26.5 million veterans, telling Congress he is "mad as hell" that he wasn't told right away.

"The employee promptly reported the theft to the local police and to the Department of Veterans Affairs. But it was not until May 16th that I was notified," Nicholson said. "As a veteran, I am outraged."

"It is important to note that the data did not include any of VA's electronic health records," he told the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. But he added: "I can promise you that we will do everything in our power to make clear what is appropriate and inappropriate use of data by our employees."

Congress is trying to determine whether the VA had adequate security measures in place to guard against the unauthorized disclosure of veterans' Social Security numbers and birthdates. It is one of the nation's largest security breaches.

[leftyladyfrommo]

1. He's probably the one who told them to keep it all quiet. n/t

[Virginia Dare]

2. Then resign immediately, you fool!...

you are obviously too incompetent to be running this organization. And save your fake outrage, you stupid hypocrite--you could have easily prevented this from happening long ago!!!

:argh:

[marylanddem]

3. he's "striving to find out why" it took 2 weeks to notify him?

"striving" - gee, its real hard work to ask your underling a freaking question???

[stepnw1f]

4. Hey Good Govt. Officials.... It's Time to Take a Stand

Rebel if you have to... we are here ready to back you up.

[benddem]

5. when does he get his medal of freedom?

the guy is totally unqualified to head the VA. His last job was ambassador to the Vatican.

[saigon68]

8. Soon I Believe

He's like the Horse Groomer who was in charge of FEMA

What an ass clown, his performance on TV last night was pathetic

[CONN]

6. He's a lackey who supports Bush's cuts for veterans' care

Bush budget cuts out beds for veterans in care homes
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2005/Apr/10/ln/ln12p.html

Bush Budget Includes New Fees, Cuts In VA Long-Term Care
http://www.usmedicine.com/article.cfm?articleID=1037&issueID=72

[steely]

7. Sure he's mad - I would be too if I was inept enough to lose my job.

Guess it will only take about 3 months.

Of coure I get to come home every day wondering if my life savings was withdrawn by some stranger who bought my personal data for 10 bucks.

Heck of a job "Jimmy".