In our top story this evening, on June 6, Senator Chin submitted his report to the Senate President noting a balance of $40.3 million from the Republic of China- Taiwan stimulus grants covering 2002 to 2009, the entire administration of then President Tommy Remengesau that has now prompted controversy on whether the funds are missing or not.OTV spoke to Senator Chin about his findings and this is what he said:
[CAMSEK CHIN]: You used the term “missing” it’s not missing it’s not missing. If you see my report it says remaining balance. Remaining is totally different from “missing”. Remaining says here’s what was authorized and this is what remains. My report is based on the 2009 Audit report. In order to find out more information about the remaining balance, you’ll have the 2010 and 2011 Audit report. When we were using a grant from another country, it’s not necessary to spend that same year. For example, if we use a grant from the Taiwan government for a road project, let’s say in Iyebukel. It may not be completed in that same year, sometimes it’s two or three years after we received authorization from the donor country. This report only shows the total grants we have received, how much we’ve spent and how much remains. It could be pending a report for payment or the project has not been completed. During the last session, I submitted my report to all Senators including the Senate President. The Senate President assigned the Chairman of the Ways and Means to look into those things. To find out if the $40 million has changed. To determine if projects has been completed or we have passed the second phase and need payment. For example, Surangel company needs to finish the first phase, then asks the Republic of Payment. First you need to complete the first phase of the project, then ask for payment and inform the donor country before we can move on. That is process.
OTV also contacted the Embassy of Republic of China-Taiwan in Palau where they stated that as per records there are no missing funds; they also stated that the ROC government does not release funds until projects are completed.You can watch Senator Chin’s full interview on OTV.