New National Forum for Public-Private Preparedness is Established

September 16, 2004 02:40 PM

New York City – New York University’s Center for Catastrophe Preparedness and Response, in conjunction with the Working Group on Private Sector Preparedness held the first of an ongoing series of forums between private sector representatives and the Department of Homeland Security. Other federal and local government agencies participated as well.

The initial forum was convened at the request of the Department to identify the effects of heightened terror alerts and the Republican National Convention. This event marked the first business-government roundtable held in advance of a designated national security event.

Representatives from the Department of Homeland Security’s Private Sector Office, FEMA’s National Preparedness Division, the SEC and local agencies participated in the discussion of concerns and issues raised by businesses and private sector organizations. Potential solution strategies were also discussed.

“Facilitating two way communication between DHS and the businesses community will enhance preparedness nationally,” said Executive Director Brad Penuel. “These forums will actively promote emergency preparedness in American enterprise by targeting key issues and assembling those stakeholders critical to any effective solution,” added Bill Raisch, Chair of the Working Group on Private Sector Preparedness and facilitator of the forum.

Private sector representatives outlined a number of concerns, including the need for timelier, more actionable information. DHS and local agencies summarized existing information sharing mechanisms that are available for eligible businesses to learn about existing threats and share new information. Following this discussion, DHS also introduced businesses to a new 24/7 hotline to access information about threats, risks and vulnerabilities.

“We are pleased that as a result of these forums, DHS has opened a new line of communication with the private sector.” said Brad Penuel. “The Center will continue to facilitate an effective public-private dialogue to improve emergency preparedness. As our efforts move forward, we welcome the involvement of interested private sector organizations.”

The Center for Catastrophe Preparedness and Response is a Congressionally mandated and DHS funded center. Its ongoing projects include developing preparedness training programs for the private sector, strengthening public health preparedness, developing more effective sensor technologies, and improve communications among first responders.