Wednesday, February 03, 2010

Guam requests US Marine relocation beyond 2014

Guam requests US Marine relocation beyond 2014

2010/02/01 06:20(JST)

The Governor of Guam, Felix Camacho, has requested that the United States delay the completion of the relocation of 8,000 Marines from Okinawa, to beyond 2014.

Governor Camacho made the written request in a letter to Ray Mabus, the US Secretary of the Navy.

The Governor reiterated his support for the relocation of 8,000 Marines from Okinawa, but stressed the need to minimize the impact on the island.

He explained the limits of the islands' capability to accommodate a significant influx of military personnel, because of its weak local economy.

Camacho asked for the completion of the Marines relocation to be delayed beyond 2014, to ensure that disruptions to the island's infrastructure and socioeconomic services are minimized.

The population of Guam is currently about 180,000. With the addition of 8,000 marines and their family members, along with construction workers for the relocation project, it is expected to reach 260,000 at the peak.

The governor's request reflects local concerns about the lack of social facilities on the island, such as schools and hospitals.

2010/02/01 06:20(JST)
(JST: UTC+9hrs.)

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