The latest government department scandal revolves around the Loteria Nacional that was not able to pay winning numbers of the most recent lottery. Aristipo Vidal, general manager of the Lottery says that the finances of the institution were affected when the Banco de Reservas demanded payment of a short-term loan granted in February to finance the equipping of the Hospital de Billeteros, the hospital built to service lottery ticket vendors. The Banco de Reservas reportedly loaned the Lottery RD$25 million to be paid this month. The Lottery has had difficulties paying its employees, also. Likewise, its finances have been restricted by a legal case against it by advertising agencies to which money is owed. The agencies are desperate to collect now, as it is unlikely the next government will honor the debts. The governmental Chamber of Accounts is carrying out an audit of the National Lottery.
