Senators will continue to scrutinize the $10 million scanner for customs being purchased with proceeds from the bond sale at a hearing tomorrow.
Maoputasi Senator Tuaolo Fruean insists that there are more critical priorities that the government needs to focus on than getting a $10 million scanner.
He wants a representative from Treasury and the Board of Directors of the American Samoa Economic Development Authority to appear before the Senate to answer their questions more thoroughly on why the scanner is more important than other more pressing needs.
Financial help for the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority, was mentioned as an example. ASTCA has requested the Retirement fund board for a locan of $4.7 million.
Tuaolo reminded the Senate President they have a say in this matter and the Fono should not be dictated to by a company that suggested purchasing the scanner.
The Senate president told senators that the scanner was proposed by the government to justify getting $10 million but it was not suggested by the bond purchaser.
Senator Tuaolo said that before he joined the Senate he was aware that the scanner was proposed by the late Treasurer Falema’o Dr. Phil Pili.
He said that the use of the bond proceeds should not be dictated by the company that’s selling the government the idea of this expensive scanner.
Tuaolo felt strongly that the Fono has a say in stopping the purchase.
The Senate leader, Gaoteote Palaie, said the off-island company is not the one to talk to but the governor because the off-island company did not tell the government to purchase the scanner.
He said this is what the government proposed to justify getting $10m.
At a Senate hearing with ASEDA board members two weeks ago, deputy Treasurer Tina Vaa said the scanner is needed to boost revenue collections and for border protection by way of intercepting drugs weapons and other contraband.
A meeting of port users last week were told that the scanner is due to arrive in June and a fee schedule for importers who will be charged for the use of the scanner will be drawn up soon.
The hearing to discuss the $10 million scanner has been scheduled for Wednesday morning.
