Thad Allen Quotations

We're in the process of supporting the mayor's plan for re-entry.

I urge all residents returning to use extreme caution if they return and to consider delaying their return until safer and more livable conditions are established.

I think we need to be very careful how we talk about how we re-enter these neighborhoods. There may be hazardous chemicals that have entered the water.

Right now, being in a shelter, or being in a hotel, is somewhat a bridge to nowhere.

Quite clearly, the No. 1 challenge right now is more pumping capacity.

As the city of New Orleans begins its re-entry program this morning, there are continued concerns that the damaged electricity, water, sewage and safety systems are not restored to a level that can meet the basic needs of the businesses and residents who return.

It's probably going to be years before they get it cleaned up and restore any type of a structure to the place.

Our No. 1 priority right now is the safety of those individuals and getting medical help to them as soon as we can.

I'm finding a lot of frustration, and it's a lot easier to deal with frustration than anger.