FDA Acting Commissioner Steps Down from NCI

Statement of the Hon. Rosa L. DeLauro

FDA Acting Commissioner Steps Down from NCI

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) today issued the following comment on the Acting Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration Dr. Andrew von Eschenbach stepping down as director of the National Cancer Institute. Since his appointment, von Eschenbach has been splitting his time between the agencies.

DeLauro, who is ranking member of the House subcommittee with jurisdiction over the FDA budget, sent a letter to the president earlier this week calling on him to provide a timeline to Congress on when he will name a permanent commissioner for FDA. Click here to view the letter: http://www.house.gov/delauro/press/2005/September/FDA_timeline_09_27_05.html.

"The problems plaguing this agency need the attention of a full-time commissioner. Temporary leadership for another prolonged period of time will only threaten the public health at a time when this agency has overseen the flu vaccine shortages, the delayed withdrawal of medicines such as Vioxx and ongoing safety concerns regarding medical devices such as defibrillators. We must restore the public's confidence in our food and drug supply.

"I am glad to see Dr. von Eschenbach abandon this arrangement, which would have undoubtedly compromised the distinct missions of both the FDA and the NCI. Yet I continue to raise concern over the lack of a full-time commissioner at the FDA. The president should immediately name a nominee to serve in this capacity."

http://www.house.gov/delauro/press/2005/September/FDA_step_down_NCI_09_30_05.html