(The NTSB issued the following news release on March 4.)
WASHINGTON, DC — The National Transportation Safety Board will pilot a new phase of their communication outreach program to support public access to Board meetings, hearings, and other NTSB events by providing a satellite uplink at the March 9th Board meeting. “This is Phase II of our efforts,” said Chairman Ellen Engleman-Conners, “which builds on our webcast initiative implemented last year.”
Last year, the NTSB began using its web site (www.ntsb.gov) to provide access to its public meetings live via the Internet. Chairman Engleman-Conners noted that the web casts and the satellite transmission pilot program support electronic government initiatives to use information technology to create efficient and cost-effective ways to deliver government services.
Testing of the NTSB’s satellite transmission program will begin with the Board meeting scheduled for March 9, 2004. On the agenda for that meeting are final reports on a fatal freight train accident in Minot, North Dakota, and the sinking of a tour boat in the Florida Everglades. Those interested in down linking the transmission should contact Capital Connections (703) 993-3100 for feed co-ordinates.
Once testing of this program is completed the NTSB will provide details for the on-going service. The Board plans to uplink future NTSB meetings and hearings when there is a request. Those who wish to downlink the satellite transmission will be responsible for the arrangements and costs.