FCC Deploys Staffers to Haiti

Genachowski tells stories of survivors aided by technology

By John Eggerton -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/20/2010 11:24:30 AM

A team of three FCC staffers was dispatched to Haiti Monday to help with telecommunications issues there, according to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski.

Providing an update on the current telecommunications situation in Haiti, the chairman said that wireline service is down, and two of four mobile services are out as well. Of 18 TV stations in the country, only two are still functioning.

The FCC staffers are said to be fine after the major aftershock Wednesday (Jan. 20).

That was part of a status report delivered at the outset of the FCC's public meeting Wednesday.

Genachowski cited a number of ways in which new media have helped in saving lives. They included five people trapped in rubble who were rescued after they texted their location, another person trapped who used an iPhone app to apply first aid to his injuries, and a woman in Denver who found her daughter after a cable news story about the destruction of an orphanage.

He said those examples underscore the "vital importance" of universally available infrastructure that works in times of crisis.

FCC Commissioner Michael Copps said Genachowski had done a superb job of coordinating the FCC response.

Copps said that more money would need to be raised to rebuild not only communications but the whole country. "As we open up our hearts, we need to be mindful of the need to open up our checkbooks as individual citizens," he said.

Commissioner Robert McDowell echoed those sentiments. He said the FCC had "swiftly put ideas into action." He said his thoughts and prayers were with the heroes helping out, including the FCC staffers.

Commissioner Mignon Clyburn said the FCC, and the U.S., have shown by their willingness to help they are good neighbors and Good Samaritans. Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker added her thanks to the companies who have mobilized support.