Bulgarian PM: My Security More Important than Cost

The government airplane has been used by PM Borisov 41 times in 2010, and 4 times in 2011. File photo

Bulgaria's Prime Minister, Boyko Borisov, declared in the Parliament Friday he would never compromise with his personal security in order to reduce travel expenses.

Borisov replied to a question coming from the Member of the Parliament from the opposition Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), Korneliya Ninova, asking how many times and for what reasons he had used the government's aircraft and pilot crew, known as "Aviootryad 28" since the beginning of his term.

"I know how to estimate my safety and security," the PM countered, adding last year the plane had done 41 flights, costing BGN 123 763, and 4 flights in 2011 for the cost of BGN 13 000. In addition, Borisov has traveled 79 761 km in cars of the National Security Services, (NSO), between January 1, 2010, and March 26, 2011, in the amount of BGN 113 682. The cost of his accommodations in the country is estimated at BGN 1 400.

"These trips have been done as part of my duties and authorities as country leader, whose security I would never compromise," Borisov declared.

Ninova accused the PM in failing to provide personal example for his appeals to common citizens to "tighten their belts in times of crisis," adding he acts like he is God.

"April Fool's Day has a good effect on our colleagues from the left wing," Borisov countered.

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