Agencies Simulate Cuban Influx (AP)

[Eugene]

Agencies Simulate Cuban Influx
By LAURA WIDES-MUNOZ
Associated Press Writer

March 7, 2007, 4:30 PM EST

DORAL, Fla. -- More than 85 federal and local law enforcement agencies kicked off
a two-day exercise Wednesday to prepare for a possible mass migration from the
Caribbean, such as might occur following a change in government in Cuba.

Officials declined to provide details about the exercises, citing security concerns.
But they said the training would test how well the agencies can coordinate responses.

The Coast Guard planned to allow reporters to ride along Thursday during a staged
interdiction of a mock smuggling boat, but other exercises would simply simulate the
use of boats and other vehicles.

"We're exercising the plan just like you exercise your muscles, so you don't get weak
and flabby," said Zachary Mann, a customs and border protection spokesman.

-snip-

Full article: http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/nation/wire/sns-ap-mass-migration-plan,0,4425954.story