Hearing Of The Senate Foreign Relations Committee - Nominations

Statement

Chaired By: Senator Edward Kaufman (D-De)

Witnesses: Capricia Penavic Marshall, To Be Chief Of Protocol, And To Have The Rank Of Ambassador; Daniel M. Rooney, To Be Ambassador To Ireland

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SEN. KAUFMAN: Good afternoon. I am honored to Chair this hearing of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as we consider the nomination of Mr. Daniel Rooney to be Ambassador to Ireland, and Ms. Capricia Marshall to be Chief of Protocol, with the rank of Ambassador. These are -- and I really mean this. These are two very, very well-qualified nominees. And I welcome both Ms. Marshall and Mr. Rooney to the Committee. I'm also pleased to be joined by a stellar group of colleagues, Senators Casey, Specter and Brown, who are here to give brief introductions.

Our first nominee is Ms. Capricia Marshall, nominated to be Chief of Protocol, which is a position that literally sets the stage for U.S. diplomacy. Both the president and the Secretary of State have great confidence in Ms. Marshall, who has an impressive record of public service relevant to this position. As Deputy Assistant to the president and Social Secretary in the Clinton Administration, Ms. Marshall organized official events with foreign dignitaries in a manner that is consistent with official protocol and policy.

As White House Social Secretary, Ms. Marshall ensured the success of state visits, conferences, and other important events, including the celebration of NATO's 50th Anniversary. She also served as Special Assistant to the First Lady, where she advised on an array of issues related to diplomatic outreach. Ms. Marshall has been active in non-profit work as well, with the Clinton Foundation, the Blessed Sacrament Church, Vital Voices, and the Children's Defense Fund, the Sasha Bruce Foundation, and at Sidwell Friends School, where she serves on various committees.

The Chief of Protocol, as you all know, accompanies the President on official visits abroad, and oversees all aspects of protocol for official international travel by the President, the Vice President, the Secretary of State, or their designees. In addition, the Office of Chief of Protocol coordinates approximately 350 visits per year, 350 visits per year of foreign leaders, foreign ministers, and other high-ranking foreign dignitaries to Washington, D.C.

This office also addresses issues related to the accreditation of foreign diplomats in the United States, oversees the Blair House, issues of diplomatic immunity, and the exchange of gifts between U.S. officials and foreign dignitaries, among other responsibilities.

This afternoon, we also have the honor of considering the nomination of Dan Rooney for Ambassador to Ireland. The relationship with Ireland is one of the most important bilateral relationships for the United States, especially given the approximate 44 million U.S. residents of Irish ancestry, a large number which includes me. I come from an Irish-Catholic background, influenced by a passionate and politically astute mother. She had, shall we say -- and I mean, shall we say very strong feelings about Ireland. And she'd be very proud to see her son presiding over today's nominee.

Mr. Rooney is best known as the owner and Chairman of that other Pennsylvania football team. (Laughter.) While I grew up in Philadelphia, and I'm a lifelong Eagles fan, the Committee will not hold your Steelers ownership against you, though I would appreciate you sharing at least one of your six Super Bowl trophies with us someday.

Outside of the sports world, Mr. Rooney is also known for his leadership in philanthropy. A co-founder of the American Ireland Fund, an organization that has raised over $300 million for peace education programs in Ireland. Mr. Rooney has been a devoted supporter of U.S.-Irish educational ties. He has won almost two dozen charitable awards and honors, and served organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club of America, Catholic Charities, Catholic Youth Association, Bishop's Education Fund, the Cardinal Wright Regional School, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, and the Taoiseach's Committee on Economic Development, among others.

If confirmed, and he will be confirmed, Mr. Rooney will be instrumental in maintaining the close cultural, political, and economic ties between the United States and Ireland. And there are many issues and shared interests that unite us. One of the most significant is our steadfast commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, which not have been accomplished without strong supporting leadership of American, British, and Irish governments.

In conclusion, I'd like to finish with a personal story that reflects the unimpeachable character of Mr. Rooney and his family, a quality which I'm sure he will apply to his role as Ambassador to Ireland.

In 1972, after I was lucky enough to be a part of Joe Biden's historic Senate campaign, I watched as Joe went through an unspeakable tragedy. Just weeks before the brightest point in his young career, he lost his wife and infant daughter in an awful car accident. His two young sons were severely injured and hospitalized.

During this time, Joe almost never left the side of his, of his two sons. After one of those rare trips where he went out to get a Christmas tree, Joe returned to see his sons, Beau and Hunter, beaming. They were holding a football autographed by the entire Steelers Team, delivered early in the day by a Steelers runner back, Rocky Bleier. Mr. Rooney, your family sent that ball to the Biden boys without fanfare, without any connection to then-Senator Biden, and without any specific reason other than reaching out to a family in dire (straits ?). It's something I will never forget.

As you know, Mr. Rooney, every time the vice president tells that story -- and I know this for a fact, and I know that Senator Specter, who's traveled back and forth with the Senator so many -- Senator Biden so many times now, as it brings tears to his eyes. And I must admit, whenever I hear it, to know what he went through and what the boys overcame, I get emotional, as well. And I want to thank you for that.

So we have two wonderful nominees to, to talk about today. And I'd like to call the Ranking Member of the Committee, Senator Lugar, to see if he had any comments.

SEN. LUGAR: Well, thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I cannot improve upon your wonderful opening statement on behalf of two wonderful nominees. And I look forward to hearing your testimony. And I will no tarry further, because I would like to hear from our colleagues, their introductions. And we appreciate their coming.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Great. And right now I'd like to give my colleagues, Senators Casey, Specter and Brown an opportunity to introduce our nominees.

Senator Casey, please go first in introducing Mr. Rooney.

SEN. CASEY: Mr. Chairman, thank you very much, and I want to thank Ranking Member Senator Lugar for being with us today, and for chairing this hearing.

It's my distinct pleasure to introduce to this Committee a son of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and someone who's my friend, Dan Rooney. Dan appears today as President Obama's nominee to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Ireland, an important diplomatic posting in the world.

I know that Dan's exceptional lifetime accomplishments, as well as his abiding interest in both the American and Irish people, make him an ideal nominee to serve as America's envoy to the Emerald Isle. I wish my late father, Governor Casey, were here to speak on Dan's behalf. He had very, very high standards, and he loved and respected Dan Rooney, Dan's father, Art Rooney, the original Art Rooney.

Dan Rooney, as many of you might know, was an All-Star quarterback in high school, and graduated from Duquesne University with a degree in accounting. After graduation, he immediately joined the Pittsburgh Steelers Organization, and has never left until now.

Following the footsteps of his father, Art, Dan was appointed as president of the Steelers in 1975, and became the owner of the team in 1988, following his father's death. Under his visionary leadership, the Pittsburgh Steelers have emerged as one of the modern-day dynasties in the National Football League. Having one six Super Bowls, including the dramatic win this past year. In honor of his leadership skills, Dan was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in the year 2000.

Mr. Chairman, Dan Rooney is best known for his successful management of the Steelers. But for Dan the game must be more than wins and loses on Sunday. You may have heard of the "Rooney Rule." The "Rooney Rule" implemented by the NFL beginning in 2003 under Dan's leadership, requires teams, when seeking to fill the position of head coach or general manger, to interview at least one minority candidate.

Dan Rooney recognized that too often these positions were filled by a old Boy's Club that may disadvantage people of color, and others who come from less traditional backgrounds. The "Rooney Rule" is widely held as a success. Indeed, the young head coach of our Super Bowl Champion Steelers, Mike Tomlin, just happens to be an African- American.

Dan Rooney will bring to this position as Ambassador, a lifetime of work on behalf of strengthening the U.S./Ireland partnership. In 1976, Dan played a critical role in founding the American Ireland Fund, which has raised over $300 million for peace and education programs in Ireland.

In 1989, Dan co-founded the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh to raise awareness of and contribute to the social and economic stability of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Few Americans have done more than Dan Rooney to nurture the ties between our two great nations.

Dan has also played a significant role in facilitating an active U.S. role in the northern Ireland peace process. Indeed, just last year, Queen Elizabeth, II, presented Dan with an Honorary Commander of the British Empire for his, quote, "exceptional contribution to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland."

Finally, Dan has been an energetic and active member of the Greater Pittsburgh Community. Just among many things I could list, he's the founding chairman of the Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania, a community-based organization that promotes mentoring relationships for young people.

Dan Rooney will draw from a lifetime of experiences in serving our nation overseas. Yet despite all that experience and ability, he's a man of uncommon humility and decency. On game days, Dan still walks from his family home to Heinz Field. The Steelers are his family, and he stands in line like everyone else at the Steelers' lunchroom. He visits his players when they're in the hospital and treats them always, always with respect and affection.

Should the United States Senate choose to confirm Dan Rooney as our next Ambassador to Ireland, and I believe we will, he will sever his ties with the Pittsburg Steelers Organization for the first time since 1955. I know that he will leave the organization in very good and capable hands. If it were otherwise, loyal Steelers fans would never allow Dan to depart.

But all kidding aside, I'm proud to voice my unwavering support for Dan Rooney. He's a loving husband, a proud father of nine children, and an extraordinary leader. As a member of this Committee and as a proud of Pennsylvanian, and as someone who happens to be of Irish-ancestry, I offer my whole-hearted endorsement of Dan Rooney as our next United States Ambassador to Ireland.

Dan, congratulations, and thank you for your willingness to serve our country.

Thank you for allowing me, Mr. Chairman, to speak on Dan Rooney's behalf.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you, Senator Casey.

And I also want to recognize Senator Shaheen, who is here, and Senator Barrasso, who are both helping to move this along. So I appreciate their help.

Senator Specter, could you introduce Mr. Rooney?

SEN. SPECTER: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I am pleased to join my distinguished colleague, Senator Casey. And he has stated the case very effectively, as usual. I will just make a few additional comments.

I think it is a superb appointment. I have had the privilege of knowing Dan Rooney for decades, and share Senator Casey's very lofty recommendation of him. When the appointment was made on -- the nomination was made on St. Patrick's Day, I had occasion to talk to Dan and tell him that I was sure that there would be smooth sailing and he would have a lot of support.

And then there was some joking about Dan's undertaking this job because it involved two items that he wasn't too fond of; making speeches and staying up late. So that it's really a sacrifice to undertake the duties of Ambassador, but he is very well-suited for it.

To look at the Steelers, it's hard to get an adequate adjective; superb, magnificent, record over the years. There have been many changes in great coaches for the Steelers. And there have been many changes in great players for the Steelers. But the one constant has been the Rooney family, and in large measure, Dan Rooney. Which leads to the inference that the driving force with so many shifts, except for the Rooneys and Dan Rooney, where the credit ought to go for the enormous success.

Dan Rooney has friends in higher places than Bob Casey and Arlen Specter. Senator Casey and I attended the Super Bowl party at the White House, and saw President Obama react to the highlights of the game when the Steelers were dominating. And I heard the story from President Obama as to how he happened to become a Steelers fan. He grew up in Hawaii where there is no professional football team. And when he was 10, it was the era of Bradshaw and Mean Joe Green and -- to Dan Rooney. Whom would you supplement with, Dan?

MR. ROONEY: I would say they were all great, but Franco Harris is one that deserves a little attention.

SEN. SPECTER: Franco Harris. We got Dan to talk, you see. It's possible, with the proper pause, to get the immaculate conception -- the immaculate reception (Laughter.) on the table.

I would join my colleague, Senator Casey, in urging the Committee to act promptly.

The Senate is known for the saucer that cools the tea, but the Senate is also known for ability to move with dispatch when the circumstances warrant it. It's kind of hard to get a confirmation done in a couple of days, but it is my hope that that can be done. Because the sooner there is an Ambassador Rooney in Dublin, the better off the country will be.

Congratulations, Dan.

And thank you very much, Mr. Chairman and my colleagues on the Committee.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you, Senator Specter. And I know you and Senator Casey have committee hearings to go to, so you have to leave now. That's okay. And no --

SEN. SPECTER: It's nice to see you in the Chairman's chair, Senator Kaufman.

SEN. KAUFMAN: (Laugher.) Thank you.

And that's another respect to a great Senator, who is here, Senator Brown. Senator Brown, would you please --

SEN. BROWN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And I thank my side colleagues, Senator Casey and Senator Specter for joining us, too.

And I appreciate -- certainly no disrespect to Mr. Rooney, but I appreciate Bernice seating Capricia Marshall between Mr. Rooney and me, only because as a senator who lives in the Cleveland area that it would not look for a picture in the newspaper of me sitting next to Mr. Rooney (Laughter.) with no real explanation. So just sitting --

MR. ROONEY (?): I know exactly how you feel.

SEN. BROWN: Having a Cleveland buffer between us can work, so --

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. It's, it's my honor to be here, and Ranking Member Lugar and Senators Shaheen and Barrasso, nice to see you, too.

I'd first like to submit -- since Secretary of State Clinton asked me to submit a letter of support to the Committee, if I could, in support of her long-term friend Capricia Marshall.

I can think of no one better suited in our entire country to handle official visits of dignitaries to our nation than I can Capricia Marshall, nominee for this -- for the position of Chief of Protocol. Chief of Protocol is a demanding job that requires highly- skilled diplomatic and organizational, highly-skilled diplomatic and organizational work. It's no accident the position carries the rank of Ambassador. It's also no accident the president has appointed Capricia Marshall to this important position.

She's a native of Cleveland. Her father came from Croatia. Her mother came from Mexico. They both join us today in the second row. I would like to acknowledge them. They met in Cleveland as Capricia just said to me, the ultimate melting pot. They're also joined by her, her husband, Dr. Robert Marshall from Cincinnati. Dr. Marshall had the good sense to go to -- both to be born in Southern Ohio and go to school at the same school my daughter attends, John Carroll University. And they're also accompanied by her son, Cole, who is -- one of these days will be sitting in one of these positions doing something (Laughter.), something somewhere, so --

She earned -- Capricia earned an undergraduate degree from Purdue University in the Ranking Member's home state of Indiana. She later returned to Cleveland to attend the law school of Case Western Reserve. After graduating from Case, Capricia worked for Hillary Rodham Clinton, and would later serve as Special Assistant to the First-Lady that is deputy assistant to the president and social secretary at the White House.

At the White House she managed a calendar of daily operations, as well as large-scale events and productions. Her duties included managing staff and coordinating logistics and handling the protocol on diplomatic necessities in carrying out the agenda for the White House. And that's not even an exhaustive list. There was so much more.

During her time at the White House, Capricia oversaw 17 state visits, working closely with the State Department and the Office of Protocol. This impressive number does not include the smaller, working or official visits that occurred nearly everyday. She's worked with Kings and Queens and Presidents and Prime Ministers and Governors, and even Senators, occasionally, perhaps the hardest of all to handle.

She's also had a successful business career, including running her own consulting firm. She understands how form can affect the substance of diplomacy, which really is the key responsibility for the Chief of Protocol.

I'm proud to introduce a fellow Clevelander, Capricia Marshall. I look forward to voting on her confirmation, and I look forward to moving as quickly on this one as we do on, soon to be Ambassador Rooney.

I thank the Chairman for his time.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you, Senator Brown. And if you have to leave now for hearings --

SEN. BROWN: I've got a mark-up on healthcare.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Okay.

SEN. BROWN: Thanks.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Yeah. Healthcare, healthcare, healthcare.

What I'd like to do is both give, Ms. Marshall and Mr. Rooney, an opportunity to introduce their families, and make their statements. So I'll start with Ms. Marshall, if you want to introduce your family and then make your statement.

MS. MARSHALL: I would -- apologies. I would be honored to.

Joining me here today, I'd like to recognize my supportive husband, and my son, Cole, there. And also my mother and father, Frank and Mary Penavic, so I'd have to say whose triumphant journey as immigrants to this country bring me to this courtroom here today. So I'm very pleased to have them joining me here today.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you.

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and Members of the Committee, for the opportunity to appear before you. I also want to thank Senator Sherrod Brown for his very generous introduction, and even more so for his hard work and dedication to the people of the Buckeye state, my home state of Ohio.

It is an honor and a privilege to be here today as President Obama's nominee for Chief of Protocol for the United States. I am deeply grateful for the trust he has placed in me for this esteemed position. If confirmed, I commit to him to guide the Office of the Chief of Protocol to support his efforts to renew America's leadership by advancing diplomacy and development in service of our country's interests and values.

I also wish to extend a heartfelt gratitude to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who works daily with President Obama to address the country's greatest foreign policy challenges and opportunities. She has been a mentor to me for almost two decades, and if confirmed, I would be honored to join her at Foggy Bottom.

As Secretary Clinton continues to demonstrate on her trips abroad and at Foggy Bottom, America must employ smart power, the full range of tools at our disposal. The Protocol Office is an important tool of the President, Vice President and Secretary of State, and is responsible for advancing the foreign policy goals of this Administration by cultivating an environment for successful diplomacy.

As a first generation American of Mexican and Croatian descent, the Office has a unique and personal significance to me. Growing up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, I lived with my Mexican grandmother and my home was known as the neighborhood's "United Nations," because so many people who visited hailed from different international backgrounds and cultures.

Understanding and appreciating different cultures was a core part of my upbringing. And it will continue to be a central part of the Protocol Office as it shares the fabric of American life with a diplomatic community.

If confirmed, I will work with the five arms of the Protocol office. Each division plays a special role in promoting positive relations with diplomats here in the United States, and ensuring reciprocal treatment abroad. The Vision division of Protocol works closely with many entities to support Presidential delegations sent overseas and foreign officials visiting the United States. Protocol officers ensure a safe arrival and a smooth stay.

The Ceremonials division executes official events for the vice president and Secretary of State, and coordinates programs for the Diplomatic Corps. If confirmed, I hope to expand the outreach efforts of the Ceremonials Division to provide the foreign diplomatic community with unique opportunities to engage with American leaders in an effort to strengthen our bilateral ties.

Diplomatic Affairs is responsible for determining the eligibility for privileges and immunities, and maintaining the records of diplomatic agents and employees. If confirmed, I look forward to working with the dedicated people in this division on all matters, but especially on issues related to the Wilberforce Reauthorization Act of 2008, as they pertain to domestic workers of diplomats. If confirmed, this will be a priority to me.

Another top priority is securing the resources necessary to maintain one of our country's landmarks and treasures; the official guest house to the President: Blair House. If confirmed, I will work with General Manager Randy Bumgardner and the Blair House Restoration Fund to address the recent findings of a GSA assessment to preserve this American gem.

I hope to bring to the position a mix of critical experience and unique perspective in addressing these priorities. As Social Secretary during my time at the White House, President Clinton and the First Lady counted on me to carry out their vision for using official social events to support and promote domestic and foreign policy objectives.

I executed numerous state dinners and participated in the planning of many international conferences, summits and celebrations, which often require a coordination with the diplomatic community. One of my greatest collaborative challenges was the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of NATO, when over 40 Chiefs of State and Heads of Government and their delegations arrived in Washington in the midst of NATO's engagement in the Kosovo conflict.

I was also afforded the opportunity to engage with many foreign leaders, and participate in cultural interchanges when I traveled with the President and First Lady to every continent on the globe.

All of these experiences not only qualify me for the job, but also give me a thorough understanding of the importance of White House and interagency coordination. If confirmed, I look forward to once again working side by side with the White House staff and the dedicated employees at the Department of State to employ all of the Protocol tools at our disposal to deliver on the vision of our President.

Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, thank you again for the opportunity to appear before you today, and for your consideration of my nomination. If confirmed, I look forward to again serving my country and working with you and your staffs to advance our global agenda.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you very much.

Mr. Rooney would you like to take time to introduce your family, and then make a statement?

MR. ROONEY: Thank you very much.

My wife, Patricia, is here, as two of sons, Art and Jim. My daughter-in-law, Stephanie, and my granddaughter, Sara, and Congressman -- my nephew, Congressman Tom Rooney is here from the State of Florida.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you.

MR. ROONEY: Mr. Chairman and Members of the Committee, it is my honor to be here today as the President Obama's nominee as the United States Ambassador to Ireland. I want to thank Senators Kerry, Senator Lugar, Senator Kaufman and Senators Casey and Specter from the great state of Pennsylvania, and all of you for the opportunity to speak with you today.

Like millions of others, I was deeply stirred by President Obama's declaration to people and governments around the world last January, when he said, "Know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity." America is vital to those who want piece in the world.

My family is from the town of Newry, on the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland, an area deeply affected by the troubles in the north. In visits to Newry and other towns, I witnessed destruction and human suffering. Moved by the troubles in 1976, Sir Anthony O'Reilly and I founded the American Ireland Fund for charitable effort dedicated to peace, culture and charity.

The success of the peace process would not have prevailed without determined diplomacy and patience of good people in Ireland, the U.K., and the United States. Today in Ireland, people will tell you stories about the contributions of President Clinton, Reagan and Bush, and many others, like Senator Kennedy, Kerry, Dodd, Mitchell, and McCain, and so many other great leaders from this body. American diplomacy is the best chance for peace in the world, and Ireland is its shining example. While America and Ireland remain great friends, we should not take our relationship for granted.

In conclusion, I believe we can build on our mutual interests and values and continue the strong relationship between America and Ireland. In this respect, I want to pay tribute to all who have been so successful in deepening the relationship between our two countries across politics, business, the arts, charity, academia, and especially the quest for peace. It is my intention to represent this president and our entire nation with the same spirit and dedication.

Thank you, And I would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you. And thank you, both, for your excellent statements. And I'll start by questioning Ms. Marshall.

As I outline in my opening statement, as Senator Brown said and you said, there's a multitude of responsibilities that fall under the jurisdiction in the office of Chief of Protocol. What do you view as the most important responsibilities of this position, and how will you prioritize them, if confirmed?

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for that question.

There is a great deal of work that needs to be done immediately throughout our government, and I believe that President Obama set forth a very ambitious agenda on January 20th. And I look forward, if confirmed, participating in that ambitious agenda.

There are many priorities that I've been giving thought to over the past couple of months since my name has surfaced for this position. But several really do come to mind. One would be reviewing the office and looking at the office in its entirety, and determining what we are doing to further the interests of strengthening bilateral ties. How can we participate better in the various divisions? How can we look at the various budgets and make sure that they work still? If there's other duties that we need to be performing to do that, as well.

But beyond that, to look beyond the structure of the current traditions of the office, and see what else we can do. And I see that at this time, the president and the Secretary of State have reached out. They have encouraged everyone in the government to reach out beyond our boundaries. And I would encourage the people in our office to reach out through the diplomatic community, to bring them beyond the boundaries of the beltway, to bring them to New Hampshire and Delaware and Indiana, and introduce them to other people in our country.

To introduce them to the rich culture of our country. And hopefully, they will return home with a new idea of who we are as Americans, and that we can participate together in strengthening those bilateral ties.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you very much.

Mr. Rooney, as I said my mother was -- I don't want to get into a family thing, my mother's Irish-Catholic and my father was Jewish. Are there any lessons that you learned in the peace process in northern Ireland, which was extraordinary difficult that could help us around the world in places like the Middle East where we're facing very deep conflict?

MR. ROONEY: Very much, Senator. You know, I've been going to Ireland for over 40 years, and I've been everywhere. I've gone to the north. I've been to the south. I've talked to people, and I continue to try to talk to them. And I would view, you know, my position as ambassador, to continue that.

And, yes, sir, I have witnessed, you know, difficult times. I have been to Londonderry, and saw the destruction and what has happened their. And they have now lifted up by their boot straps, and have really made that a fine town, and have brought people together.

I can see myself going around and doing things; talking to the people, having, you know, like, town halls. And trying to get not only the leaders, but the regular people involved. I can see having, you know, just the various luncheons and things like that where you would bring people together and talk about various problems that they have, like health care. They also have that problem.

And just let the people know that America cares, and we continue to care. As you say, your mother came from Ireland. She had a great feeling for Ireland, as, you know, my people did. And we have to keep that across -- and that's when in my opening remarks I said, we can't take it for granted. We have to really work at it. And that would be my intention to, you know, not to be a subject of the, of the Dublin. I would try to go everywhere.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you.

Ms. Marshall, in your response to Senator Lugar's questions for the record, you gave an honest and thorough account of the misunderstanding that led to the late and apparent overpayment of your taxes. Since it's vitally important to clear the record, please summarize your response to Senator Lugar for the committee.

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the opportunity.

I would first like to state that as an American citizen, I take very seriously my duty to pay my taxes, and that my husband and I have, to the best of our ability, attempted to do so over the years. I deeply, deeply regret this inadvertent mistake that occurred in the filing of the forms for 2005 and 2006 taxes.

But I would like to stress that we did pay our taxes. And as I did state -- well, actually we overpaid on our taxes. I would also like to state that, as I put forth in the statement on my questionnaire to the committee, that this matter was cleared up last year, and the IRS is satisfied now with our forms and our payments.

Again, I would like to say that I am deeply regretful of this inadvertent mistake.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you.

Mr. Rooney, in this time of economic crisis, what role, if any, do you think you could play in encouraging the continuation of U.S. direct investment in Ireland?

MR. ROONEY: Well, you know, Ireland is a, is a terrific place, as far as they speak the language. It has, you know, very educated, you know, citizenry. And there's many -- very many benefit. They are exercising or experiencing the same downtrend that we are -- happening in all the world. But, you know, they're ready to help and make, you know, our companies that would come there a successful operation.

There are so many -- you know, the IT situation, pharmaceuticals, banking, and it really just general business with the background and back office-type situations. And I think it, it would be a fine place to be. And I would spend my time to these companies, you know, whether I'm talking to them here or there in explaining the opportunities that do exist there, and to encourage that kind of investment.

Also, to try to do the same thing in the north. The north suffered -- you know, when the troubles ended, they were sort of behind. But now we're trying to bring them up, and they are, they are taking hold, along with, you know, the British Government. They're doing a lot to help investment by the American companies.

So I think it's something that we should work on. I think I could work with the -- my counterpart in the U.K., whoever that (bait ?) might be, and do everything we can. I know that they're talking about a special envoy, maybe that would be over there for economic affairs. I'm sure that we would work with him -- or that person, I should say. (Laughs.) But I think that there's a lot of opportunities to do this, which would be beneficial to the U.S. in hiring jobs on both sides --

SEN. KAUFMAN: Great. Thank you. I'd like to now turn to the Distinguished Ranking Member of the Senate of Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Lugar

SEN. LUGAR: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Rooney, just following up on the Chairman's question. Most of the comment about financial crisis in Ireland is emphasized that this is, if not devastating, been a very, very severe blow in a period of time in which many people would come to Ireland through the EU, have left, and gone back to find jobs somewhere else. And that's designating how desperate and hopeless they found the situation.

As you analyzed in response to the Chairman's question, investment in Ireland, what sort of programs would you advocate? In other words, how deeply will you become involved really in what's a rescue mission. And having visited Dublin three years ago and looked at all of the high-rise office buildings of electronic and communications firms, the high-tech people all flooding in there, and so forth, it is, it is very sad for both of us to see what is occurring.

Now, can you (flesh ?) out any more that what -- as our Ambassador to Ireland, you can mean to that situation?

MR. ROONEY: Well, you're right. Everything you said there as far as the -- mainly, the people leaving. In fact, as you probably know, three to five years ago they were actually trying to import. There were a lot of Polish people --

SEN. LUGAR: Yes. Exactly.

MR. ROONEY: -- that came there, and they were great workers, and did things like that. Now, they have gone back in many cases. So we have -- would have to encourage the continuation of that. And I believe this really honestly, that the, the downturn that we have in the world is going to start reversing itself.

I think there's some indications that have -- and when it does, I think that Ireland can be ready to do it.

I don't think there will be -- say this to you, I don't think they're going to go back to their Kelly Tiger where they were up here. I do think they can level off. You know, their position with the U.N. -- UE was a, was a very bold step for them. And it really helped them in so many different ways. And I think that with the same kind of, you know, let's say, ability to do those things, I think it can come back. As I say, not to the level that it was, but I think that it'll come back fine.

SEN. LUGAR: The United States and Ireland had a special relationship, and this has probably led to bolder thoughts about Visas and naturalization and changing the standards perhaps for that. Do you have any comment about the proposals for the two-year Visa or the (EU's ?) naturalization standards, and do you know whether any progress was made after Prime Minister Collins' visit?

MR. ROONEY: Well, I do know that you're talking about it in Congress, and talking like that way. But it's one of those things that you can't -- and I think they know this, you can't just make -- even though that's what they're asking for, a special bill just for the Irish. I think it has to be all extensive to others that would come here.

It is to true that there are some suffering, as far as people that are, that are here, I guess I should say illegally, who, you know, have expired Visas. And they are afraid to go home if they won't get back in, so they don't go home for funerals and weddings and things like that.

So that -- there's a problem. But as I say, I think it's a, it's a problem that the Congress has to look at in its entirety. And hopefully -- I think that there is talk that you are looking at the entire immigration situation. And I'm sure something will work out.

SEN. LUGAR: Ms. Marshall, you've already touched upon the situation at Blair House. The report about Blair House, and I simply picked up this quote. It says, "In dire need of modernization." It didn't say it was collapsing, but dire need denotes somewhat of an emergency affair. Now, how is this to be paid for? How is it to be organized? And what will your responsibilities be trying to put together the official guesthouse during the period of time in which you will have many guests? And have you thought through the Blair House modernization and the financing for it? What needs to happen over here in Congress, as well as the accommodation of people during this period.

MS. MARSHALL: Well, I appreciate the question, Senator.

I have a deep love and passion for the Blair House, as one of America's greatest treasures, and a fine landmark. It is in -- it is -- the condition of Blair House, and if you haven't been there, Senator, I -- if I am confirmed, I would welcome the opportunity to take you on a tour. It is really a lovely home.

SEN. LUGAR: It is.

MS. MARSHALL: It's impeccably decorated. And a home that we should be very proud of as Americans of the showcase of our history to visiting Chiefs of State and Heads of Government. But like many homes, Senator, it's -- like my home, it is in need of maintenance and care. And I understand that there is currently a GSA assessment being taken of the condition of Blair House.

And if I am confirmed, I would work and coordinate with the GSA and people within the Department of State and the Blair House Restoration Fund and the General Manager Randy Bumgardner on how to prioritize the issues that become apparent throughout -- through this assessment.

There are several funds -- there are several funding sources, Senator, for the Blair House. The State Department has a separate fund regarding maintenance and care, and also to cover the activities when Heads of State and Chief -- excuse me, Chief of State and Heads of Government spend the night there.

In addition, the Blair House Restoration Fund is a 501c3 that privately raises monies for the decorative objects of Blair House. I know generally the funding mechanisms, but specifically, sir, I can find out further information, and present that information to you at a later date or immediately after this hearing, regarding how further repairs would be paid for.

SEN. LUGAR: That would be fine if you would furnish that for the records of the hearing. We'd appreciate it.

MS. MARSHALL: I would happy -- be happy to do that.

SEN. LUGAR: And I have one additional question. Your responsibilities, as I understand, are to resolve disputes over diplomatic and consular immunity from time to time. Would you -- how do you approach that situation and that responsibility -- or how do you propose to do that? And are there examples in which the United States diplomats have been protected by diplomatic immunity? Would that have been your responsibility to have offered that protection?

MS. MARSHALL: Well, again, thank you, Senator, for the question.

I'll start with the second half of the question first. Is I do not oversee diplomats living abroad, and so I would not oversee -- and if Mr. Rooney is confirmed (laughs.), his privileges and immunities when he serves abroad, but --

SEN. LUGAR: He's on his own over there, in other words? (Laughter.)

MS. MARSHALL: But I -- but the Chief of Protocol does oversee the diplomatic community living here. And the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations provides for those privileges and immunities.

The immunities are granted to diplomats so that they can carry out their official duties securely and efficiently. Abuse of those immunities is not tolerated. And as well, the Convention states that diplomats must abide by the laws of their host country.

Our country does not abide by any abuse of any immunities. And so the -- if abuse does arise and it rises to a certain level, the Protocol Office coordinates and works with various other offices within the State Department to review the evidence. And if a prosecutor were to bring evidence that would state but for immunity, this -- (inaudible) -- would be criminal charges brought against this diplomat. Then we would request of the sending state, and also the Chief of Mission, a waiver of such immunities.

If the waiver were not granted, and the crime rose to felony or a crime of violence, then we would grant the person persona non gratis status, and ask them to leave the country. And list them in our Visa lookout system, so that they cannot regain entry.

I'm not exactly sure of the number of cases of which we have requested waiver of immunity. I know that it is on a case -- is decided on a case-by-case basis. And if you would like those numbers, I would be happy to present that to the committee.

SEN. LUGAR: That would be helpful as to complete our record.

MS. MARSHALL: Absolutely, Senator.

SEN. LUGAR: And thank you very much.

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you.

SEN. LUGAR: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Thank you, Senator.

And Senator Shaheen.

SEN. SHAHEEN: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Congratulations to both of you on your nominations. Thank you both for your willingness to serve the country, and take on these very important responsibilities.

Mr. Rooney, you've -- you're having quite a year. I'm not going to ask you whether it's better to have won the Super Bowl or be nominated to be an ambassador.

MR. ROONEY: I'm not sure I could answer that. (Laughter.)

SEN. SHAHEEN: You know, we have a lot of Irish-Americans in New Hampshire, as does every state. And when I was governor, we started some cultural exchanges with Ireland to try and exchange some of our folk life from New Hampshire and Ireland.

Do you see a role for you as ambassador to encourage those kinds of cultural exchanges, and what could you do -- what can you do as ambassador if you're confirmed to promote that kind of cultural exchange between Ireland and States -- and the United States?

MR. ROONEY: Well, first of all, Senator, we, at this time, have tried to do as much as we could to really increase education in Ireland that have integrated schools and things like that. The Rooney family, actually, we have a fellowship where we bring a student from Newry, where I'm from (Laughs.) to Pittsburgh, and they study at either Duquesne or the University of Pittsburgh for a year. Work for the Steelers for half the year, and Heinz for the half the year, and really go through all the kind of cultural trainings they can.

We also, you know, have been involved with bringing the Irish treasurers to Pittsburgh and things like that. I'm happy that my wife is here because she's very much involved in Pittsburg with cultural- type situations. And I would hope that she would pick it up and do some things in that direction there. But she would get my assistance as much as I can.

SEN. SHAHEEN: Well, thank you. I would encourage you to continue thinking about what kinds of exchanges we could continue to support between the United States and Ireland.

Ms. Marshall, one of your important responsibilities will have to do with gifts that are given on behalf of the President and First Lady, and, of course, you'll have to coordinate the gifts that they receive. Do you expect to have an administration policy relative to gift-gifting, and are there ways that you can think about that would highlight this country's wonderful artistic and cultural heritage, as you think about those gifts?

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you very much for the question, Senator.

During my time in the Clinton Administration, I worked very closely with the Protocol Office on gift procedures and gift-giving. And because in our country we limit the amount of the gift, we really look to giving items that have a more symbolic nature. And so we do reach out, and look for various artists who express who we are, our culture, our traditions, our rich history, and express that through the gift-giving process.

I worked very closely with the Gifts Officer throughout the Clinton Administration, and we were very creative in the ways in which we could express the sentiments of the President, Vice President and Secretary of State when there was gift-giving.

SEN. SHAHEEN: Great. Thank you, both, very much.

MS. MARSHALL: Thank you.

SEN. KAUFMAN: Well, just now, I want to thank you both for an excellent hearing here today. I want to thank your friends and family for coming here, and thank you for your, for your service.

I'll keep the record open until noon tomorrow, Thursday, June 25th. And with that, I adjourn the hearing.

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