RENBELL Premier Lance Tango has reportedly incurred a hotel bill of $4 million.
A source revealed the bill is for occupying two rooms, food and other services at the Heritage Park Hotel.
According to the source, the premier and his executive was invited by an Indonesian Mining firm Bintang Borneo Ltd in May for consultation talks on proposed mining prospecting in the province.
“The premier and his executive stayed in the hotel for six days to per take in the talks.
“Bills for the six days accommodation were paid by the Indonesian mining firm.
“But the premier and a few members remain there afterwards until today.
“Members of the mining firm have already left and the question that sticks out now is ‘who is going to pay the bills?”
The source said the provincial executive have been vigorously pushing for mining prospecting on the Islands but were met with strong opposition from chiefs and elders.
“Information we receive confirmed directors of the mining firm already left because the consultations did not work out due to strong opposition from elders and landowners.
“The question now is who is responsible for the hefty bill – the mining firm or the province?”
When contacted, premier Tango said the bill will be footed by the mining company.
“It is not my bill. The province is not responsible. The mining firm will pay the bill because it is theirs.
“To make things clear, I am staying at the hotel on the adviced of the company.
“I was told to enjoy the privileges of the hotel. They will pay the bill.”
He explained that the mining company has an agreement with the hotel.
“If people are not clear, they can contact me for clarification.”
The hotel when contacted confirmed that there is a $4m bill incurred under the arrangement.
By DENVER NEWTER
