Tourism minister left the parliamentary investigation hearings for the second time without answering any question

Romanian Tourism Minister Elena Udrea came on Tuesday to the hearings of the Parliamentary Commission investigating her for her use of public money. But just like the first time, she refused to answer any question. She went on to accuse again that the Commission had been illegally set up. Finally, she left the hearings saying she will not return until the Commission investigating her will continue to function illegally.

Since the Commission has been set up, Elena Udrea has been summoned one single time by its members. The tourism minister then came to the Parliament to announce she will not return in front of the Commission unless its members will be changed. She also refused to answer any questions.

Elena Udrea’s statements for the investigation commission:

• I could not talk for this commission with people that exercise an abusive and illegal behaviour.

• The commission was set up by breaking certain legal requirements.

• Certain members of the Commission are incompatible. If the Commission is not going to become legal, I will address the Permanent office of the Deputies’ Chamber.

• If you have a parliamentary majority, PDL and PSD, that does not mean that you can break the law, because I respect this country’s laws.

• There is no law according to which Transport Ministry staff can be sanctioned for not turning in front of the commission’s hearings. I believe you’re trying to intimidate my staff.

• Mr. Orban (n.b. the Commission’s president), it is only you breaking the law, not me.

• I sent you all the documents the commission needed.

• As long as this commission will be out of law, I will not answer your questions.

• For not one moment has the commission thought of anything else than to find something illegal in the activity of the Tourism minister, meaning me.

• After this commission will be legal, both I and the entire Ministry will come to answer your questions.