April 25, 2003 Media Advisory

Galveston, TX – U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy member Paul Kelly of Texas, will share his views on the Commission’s efforts to develop a new national ocean policy at the Sea Grant Week meeting on Tuesday, April 29, from 8:30 – 9:00 a.m. at Galveston Island’s Moody Gardens Hotel.

One of 16 members of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy, Mr. Kelly serves as the senior vice president of the Houston-based Rowan Companies, a global provider of offshore contract drilling and helicopter services. A recipient of a Public Service Commendation from the U.S. Coast Guard after seven years of service on the National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee, he also was named the Contractor of the Year in 2000 by the International Association of Drilling Contractors.

The Commission, which was established in 2001, recently held its15th public meeting in Washington, D.C. Based on expert testimony from top ocean scientists, environmental organizations, industry, citizens and government officials, the Commission is developing recommendations for a new and comprehensive national ocean policy. The Commission’s report is due to be delivered to the President and Congress in 2003. Commission milestones include the release of the mid-term report, Developing a National Ocean Policy, in September 2002. The preliminary report stated that nation’s oceans and coasts are in serious trouble.

Contacts:

Kate Naughten, (202) 418-3442
David Roscow, (703) 276-2772 ext 21


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