Airport, Energy, Financial Services, Legislation, Lithuania, Loan, Transport

The MP has asked to investigate whether the loan was issued lawfully and if it does not violate the public interest.

Based on Simasius' information, AB Vilniaus Silumos Tinklai lent LTL 5.2 million (EUR 1.5 million) to Air Lituanica in the last six months. The liberal politician does not eliminate the possibility that other municipal enterprises lent money to the airline established on the initiative of Vilnius Mayor Arturas Zuokas as well.

"Most companies of the municipality face the lack of funds as it is. Salaries for drivers and yard-keepers are late for months. Meanwhile, millions consistently go to the airline which is on the verge of bankruptcy. The needs of Vilnius' residents are clearly overlooked because the municipality's objective should be to improve public services, including in education, health and other areas," Simasius stated.

According to the politician, Minister of Finance Rimantas Sadzius paid a visit to the Liberals' Movement political group and did not reject the possibility that certain officials may be held responsible once data on the financial situation of Vilnius City Municipality and its companies is received.

"First of all, transparency of Vilnius Municipality's finances is important, which is lacking today. The National Audit Office also emphasised this. Another thing, the municipality has to control its revenue and expenditure," said Sadzius.