Miami-Dade County officials issue statements regarding Cuban delegation touring TSA facilities at MIA

Miami-Dade County officials issued the following statements regarding the visit of a Cuban government delegation to Miami International Airport (MIA). 

Statement from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava:  

“Like many across our community, I was shocked to learn that a Cuban government delegation was invited to visit Transportation Security Administration (TSA) facilities at Miami International Airport. The decision to allow Cuban officials to tour secure areas at MIA was made without the knowledge of the Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) and took place on Cuban Independence Day – a day that we reaffirm our commitment to freedom and democracy in Cuba in the face of a brutal dictatorship.  

“My office has directly contacted the Department of Homeland Security to understand how this decision was made, and to request that the County and MDAD be included in any future decisions regarding granting access to MIA facilities to foreign government officials.  

“Miami-Dade County stands firmly with the Cuban people here in our community and on the island as they continue the fight to bring freedom to Cuba, and we are committed to ensuring the safety of our community and all those who travel through MIA.” 

Statement from Chief of Public Safety James Reyes: 

"As the son of a Cuban political prisoner, it's offensive that the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agency would have Cuban officials tour security protocols at Miami International Airport. This decision was done unilaterally by TSA and without any knowledge of County officials. The shocking move, on the day Cubans celebrate Cuban Independence Day, must never happen again."