May 20, 1998
                                
                                
            STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN WILLIAM KENNARD ON
                       GALAXY 4 SATELLITE
                                
The FCC is aware of this problem and will continue to watch it closely.  We have been in
contact with all of the parties involved and have been assured that they are working to resolve
the situation as quickly as possible.  This type of disruption in satellite service is extremely
rare.  I understand that, over the last 10 years, the average satellite failure rate, in many cases
involving just partial failure, has been approximately 1%.  In fact, satellite technology has
been responsible for the initial and continued connection of many remote areas around the
globe, as well as much competition and innovation in our global and national
telecommunications markets.  We are working with Panamsat to facilitate implementation of
its backup system to restore full service to its customers.  

After the problems are resolved, it is my intention to have our advisory committee in this area,
the National Reliability and Interoperability Council, assess the cause of the problems and
make appropriate recommendations to the Commission and to the telecommunications
industry.

                             - FCC -