P R E S S  R E L E A S E        July 11, 2006  

Committee backs IG’s recommendations for reform of VA IT management
IG report findings parallel testimony from seven recent committee hearings

Washington, D.C. — Today the IG released its report, “Review of issues related to the loss of VA information involving the identity of millions of veterans.” The report detailed weaknesses in IT management and information security at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that led to one of the largest data breaches in history.

“The IG report released today on VA's data theft reinforced what we learned in our recent hearings -- weak information security policies and a lack of central authority over information management left the department vulnerable to massive breaches,” said House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Steve Buyer (R-Ind.).

“We must ensure the security of personal data belonging to our nation’s veterans. It is our responsibility to protect all our veterans who have served the nation so well.” Buyer said. “I support Secretary Nicholson in his drive to overcome internal and external opposition to IT reform and give his CIO authority over all information management functions, including enforcement.”

“I trust the secretary will take prompt and appropriate administrative action concerning individuals involved in this serious breach of data. We will closely monitor VA’s timely response to the IG’s recommendations,” Buyer said.

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Larry Scott