For some reason, the available video online doesn’t have any sound. - Jon

Source: web.archive.org

Comments by Richard Ben-Veniste, member of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks, March 31, 3001

“In the intervening time since the September 11 attacks, we have learned a great deal about what happened on that day and the events leading up to it. In particular, we are grateful for the work of the Joint Inquiry conducted by the Senate and House Intelligence Committees. Congress has specifically instructed us to build upon the good work of the Joint Inquiry as we proceed with our investigation and develop recommendations for Congress and the President.

Yet the Joint Inquiry’s full report had only just last week been made available to the members of this Commission who have the full security clearances. As of last week, most of the Commissioners and most of the staff had not yet received security clearances. I believe the scheduling of this hearing has had a salutary effect on speeding up the clearance process. And I am gratified that the White House has now promised the funds necessary to carry out our work. It is important that President Bush has publicly supported this Commission and its goals. The full cooperation of the relevant departments and agencies of the executive branch is essential to the Commission’s ability to carry out its responsibilities. And the result of such cooperation will be a measure of our success. “
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