Interesting that no one from the Mint was even present. http://mintnewsblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/house-subcommittee-meeting-on-us-mint.html
Way to big of a security issue for that to ever happen, an personally I don't really want armed guards at the post office... those people are already crazy enough.
From the same Mint News Blog link, someone in the comments says, "Seems pretty disingenuous to hold a meeting on the Mint's bullion coin program without actually inviting the Mint!" Similarly, the criticism of the Mint, given in a written statement by a prominent industry leader for these hearings, might also aptly be applied to the Mint's absence, " "a lack of adequate communications" by officials of the United States Mint." In an increasingly transparent business culture, there's no excuse for the Mint's lack of representation in the hearings or the greater community they serve and depend upon.
Moy resides at the B.E.P. now. There is an acting interim Deputy Director, Richard Peterson that Coin World and Numismatic News reported on a few weeks ago who is currently running daily operations and looks likely to assume the position if the Administration appoints him. Those were the days – or were they? from The "Buzz" Coin Blog with Dave Harper - Numismatic News [1/13/2011] There are empty chairs at the top of the Mint hierarchy. Director Ed Moy’s resignation took effect Jan. 9. Deputy Director Andy Brunhart’s last day was yesterday and he now moves over to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
The criticism is directed in the wrong direction. If the congressional hearing wanted to hear from the Mint, they would have asked for a representative to be there. Congress has the power to summon witnesses if need be. Otherwise, people just don't stroll into these things. The US Mint only does he bidding of what the Congress orders.
Is the B. E. P. an escape route for former directors of the U. S. Mint? Isn't the mint subject to the SECRETary of the Treasury? If it is, that one nice little coffee clutch they have going on there. Gietner being the chief hostess?
