The telecommunications, electric, and oil and gas sectors are working closely to identify their interdependencies and establish contingency plans. Q. The U.S. seems to have somewhat of a handle on the Y2K issue. A. American-owned companies with international operations have been aggressively addressing this issue in their overseas locations as well as raising the issue among their foreign counterparts. Efforts have included sponsorship of conferences as well as monitoring and assessing local activity. The quality and preparedness of international telecommunications is a real concern and could have a massive impact on Y2K efforts.
Telecommunications services range from good to poor depending on the location.
As a result of that meeting, the Council has created an international group to address issues of concern. Q. Please comment on working with state commissions, local utilities and foreign countries. A. Efforts are being made to work in cooperation and coordination with other federal agencies, state commissions, and industry to alleviate duplication of effort. Chairman Hoecker has sent letters to all state governors inviting participation in the Y2K efforts by the oil and gas sector. Conference participants are encouraged to report interagency, interstate, and regional initiatives including meetings, hearings, and conferences.