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Senator wants to bring casino probe to an end
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Posted on Mar 16 1999
The Senate committee on Executive Appointments and Governmental Investigations is hoping to complete its probe into alleged misuse of funds of the Tinian Casino Gaming Control Commission when it begins its oversight later this month, according to members.
“We didn’t get the opportunity to complete the initial oversight. This time we are hoping to finish our investigation,” said EAGI vice chair Sen. Thomas P. Villagomez.
The panel is reopening its inquiry following new developments on the gaming commission after its employment contract with former House Speaker Oscar C. Rasa drew controversy early last month.
Committee chair Sen. David Cing last week said several people, including Rasa as well as legal counsels for TCGCC, will be subpoenaed to testify during the oversight.
The Senate has empowered the EAGI to resume its hearing on the alleged funds misuse, which was called off early last year without completing its inquiry.
The series of hearings, to be conducted amid growing animosity between parties, is expected to focus on Rasa’s employment with TCGCC and his functions while serving as its consultant.
Although Rasa has challenged attempts to terminate his $100,000-a-year contract, Tinian Mayor Francisco M. Borja has defended the move on grounds that it was improper.
The embattled TCGCC consultant has maintained he would welcome the Senate investigation, but resented appearing before what he called “kangaroo hearing” and be subjected by “Senator Cing’s political agenda.”
TCGCC has come under fire over the last two years due to the allegations. Early last year, EAGI suspended its oversight after prime witness Paul Palmer, former executive director of the commission, suddenly disappeared.
