OPEN LETTER
TO THE TAROM BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As an organisation representing the interests of the citizenry, The Foundation For The Defense Of Citizens Against State Abuses (FACIAS) addresses this open letter to you, requesting urgent and detailed clarifications on the utilisation of state aid funds received in recent years, given the concerning circumstances currently faced by the company.
What have you done with people's money?
In recent years, TAROM has benefited from state aid amounting to several tens of millions of euros. In 2021, TAROM received €95.3 million in financial assistance with the objective of restructuring the state-owned national air carrier. This was achieved by renewing the carrier's ageing fleet and reducing costs. It is imperative that the utilisation of these funds is transparent and justified; however, Romanians are largely unaware of the specifics. It is crucial to understand the rationale behind this funding, given that it was allocated with public funds. In accordance with Law 544 on free access to information of public interest, we request detailed information on the aforementioned funding as it follows:
- Distribution of funds: A comprehensive account is sought, delineating the manner in which the state aid funds received have been apportioned and deployed. The financial outlay and the consequences thereof are to be itemised.
- Debt relief: A portion of the aid was in the form of debt write-offs. Please provide further details regarding the specific debts that were written off, the total amount of debt forgiven, and the impact of this financial assistance on the company's overall financial stability.
Losses of 2.4 million euros a day!?
Yesterday, TAROM experienced a significant disruption to its operations, with 52 flights being cancelled. This resulted in substantial financial losses, estimated at €2.4 million. Such a situation is untenable and raises serious questions about the company's management and operational efficiency. It is questionable whether a company facing such financial constraints can afford a loss of €2.4 million a day. What measures have been taken to prevent such a situation from occurring in the future?
In light of the substantial financial assistance provided to TAROM, it is of paramount importance that the company's management demonstrates accountability and transparency in the utilisation of public funds. The Romanians, as the stakeholders of these financial resources, have the right to be informed about the manner in which their financial resources are being managed.
Concrete requests
- Plan of action: Present a concrete and measurable action plan to avoid massive flight cancellations in the future and to improve the operational efficiency of the company.
- Management responsibility: Take responsibility for your company's funds management and operational performance, and take concrete steps to correct current deficiencies.
FACIAS will continue to closely monitor the situation and will take the necessary measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
Contact details of FACIAS: