16. program, why they were not informed at all before they started the program? Peter T. Coleman As far as the Trust Territory Government is concerned, they were not informed because we did not know anything about it. The matter was brought up only after the date was set for the return and certain programs were to be implemented between now and Decembe r1973. That's the reason why we have Col. Circeo with us. He came down to explain to us in our meeting in Majuro. we did not know about it ourselves. Jon Anderson Before that I would 7ike to ask Col. Circeo again for purposes of Clarification, was the Environmental Impact Statement filed on the 18th of April? Yesterday, we were shown the work that is being done out there to prepare your test bed. When was that work begun? Lt. Col. Circeo I don't know the exact date. I'll have to ask for opinion, but I believe that was sometine in February or March. Jon Anderson So in other werd the project was already underway and Lt. Col. Circeo Yes. Peter T. Coleman Any other questions. We appreciate very much everybodies help. This is our last occasion to meet formally. We'll get together socially later on. Gideson S. On behalf of the Eniwetokese Counsel, we would like to express our appreciation and gratitude for everything that has been doné for us throughout the week. We know that your people are going to help in cleaning up the in effect a great deal of alteration of the environment was in progress before your Environmental Impact Statenent was filed. Site preparation was underway. place and prepare for their return to their home islands. Thanks for making the Militobi available for the trip to each of the islands to see what happened to the islands and to see which are now missing. Meeting adjourned 50025b2 ~27-