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House puts in request for fiber optic info
Friday,
June 26, 2009
The Legislative Financial Officer Talalemotu Mauga has been asked to review, study and provide an analysis of the fiber optic cable project.
The request comes from Vice Speaker Laolagi Savali Vaeao and Representatives Taotasi Archie Soliai, Vaiausia Eliko Yandall, Maugaoalii Leapai Sipa, Vailoata Eteuati and Galu Satele Jr.
The lawmakers’ request was prompted by news reports of a $16.6 million loan for the fiber optic project by the American Samoa Hawaii Cable company, of which ASG is a shareholder.
The representatives have decided to direct their request for information on the fiber optic finances to the LFO because under law, agencies of the government are to cooperate with investigations by the LFO by making their records available at all times to the office.
The lawmakers said that the Fono has never been fully informed regarding specifics of the fiber optic cable project, its development, current status and existing plans for going forward. They noted that despite the information void, they approved the investment of $9 million in local taxpayers money as well as federal funds for the project with the understanding that details would be provided.
However they pointed out, little if any information has been provided except through the media and after the fact hearsay.
Among the list of questions that the lawmakers want answers to are the various parties involved and pertinent relationships, the financial contributions of the partners, business plans for the project, how ASG’s $9 million is being spent, the project costs to date and going forward, the assets and liability of American Samoa Hawaii Cable and other subsidiary companies and any exposure or liability ASG faces.
They also want to know agreements, which have been entered into with other entities specifically with Samoa, the rates being charged for cable usage, and the projected date of return on ASG’s investment.
The Legislative Financial Officer was advised that any request for information should be made to the governor in his capacity as ASG’s representative in the American Samoa Hawaii Cable and in his capacity as the territory’s telecommunications regulatory commissioner.
According to the faipule they are hopeful the information obtained will allow them to better inform not only their colleagues in the Fono but constituents on the use of public funds for the fiber optic project.
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