EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our report included in this Form 10-K, into the Company's previously filed Registration Statement on Form S-4 on August 3, 1998 (File No. 333-60533) and Registration Statement on Form S-8 on December 2, 1998 (File No. 333-68261). ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Houston, Texas March 31, 1999 53