Declaring victory in a years-long legal tussle over whether to utilize one of the Northeast's greatest energy resources, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy applauded the work of New York energy officials and politicians in winning an agreement to reopen the Cross Sound Cable across Long Island Sound.

An agreement announced last week would provide for permanent reopening of the cable, with Long Island Power Authority responsible for sharing other energy costs with Connecticut.

Speaking of Connecticut officials who had fought the use of the Cross Sound Cable, McCarthy said, "At long last, it seems they finally saw the light. This is a victory for Long Island, and it couldn't come at a better time." The cable could be re-energized as early as today, providing Long Island the electricity it needs to meet high summer demands.

McCarthy also praised Governor George Pataki, Long Island Power Authority Chairman Richard Kessel and fellow Long Island congressmen for working together on this issue.

"We couldn't have done this without teamwork. It's a wonderful example of working across party lines for the interests of Long Islanders. I'm proud to have been a part of this victory," McCarthy said.

Under the agreement, LIPA will share some of the $80 million cost of upgrading an older underwater power cable that also links Long Island and Connecticut. The agreement also requires LIPA to provide for a $6 million fund to research the restoration of Long Island Sound.