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Lucas disputes view of Galapagos Islands trip

by: JIM MYERS World Washington Bureau
Saturday, October 18, 2008
10/18/2008 2:24:57 AM

A TV news magazine says lawmakers stayed in expensive accommodations.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas received undoubtedly unwanted publicity this week after a television news magazine described a visit he and other lawmakers made to the Galapagos Islands as a taxpayer-funded trip to paradise on a luxury jet.

The show "Inside Edition" tagged along with the congressional delegation and used hidden cameras to expose what it termed expensive seaside accommodations with a staff catering to the group's every need.

Lucas expressed disappointment over the program's coverage of the June trip and disputed parts of it.

"I had no idea how amazing my trip was until I saw the show describing our visit," the Oklahoma Republican said in a written statement.

"Actually I slept on a concrete pedestal with a mattress on top of it. There was a shortage of water, and we showered in brackish water that felt like I'd been swimming in the ocean.''

Despite the "pretty, picturesque'' descriptions used on the program, Lucas said the trip organized by a subcommittee of the House Science and Technology Committee was work-oriented.

"The Galapagos Islands are situated in the middle of a region strongly affected by the El Niño phenomenon, which impacts weather patterns in North America, creating an ideal setting for a living laboratory that studies weather patterns," he said.

"Agriculture is an important aspect of the economy in Oklahoma, and as we have seen in recent years, weather can have a negative impact on our crops. Therefore, the research done there is important not only to the entire country, but specifically to Oklahoma and the Third Congressional District."

In addition, Lucas said the House committee, which he serves on, has jurisdiction over the National Science Foundation, which runs the labs on the Galapagos.

"I must ensure proper oversight of these facilities," he said.

Lucas' wife accompanied him on the trip, and he reportedly paid her expenses.

Jim Myers (202) 484-1424
jim.myers@tulsaworld.com

Associate Images:

TRAVELER
U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas: He calls the House subcommittee's visit work-oriented.

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