Who is Jenny Salesa and why is she spending $10,000 a month on travel?

12 MARCH 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union is calling on Labour Minister Jenny Salesa to front up to taxpayers with a better explanation for her high travel and accommodation expenses.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson Louis Houlbrooke says, “Why is Jenny Salesa spending $10,000 a month on travel – more than the Prime Minister?”

"The average taxpayer probably hasn’t even heard of Jenny Salesa. In fact, we had to look her up to remind ourselves what she actually does.”

“Salesa’s portfolios are Ethnic Communities and Building. It’s not clear why she would need to spend more than the Prime Minister.”

“The second highest spender, Shane Jones, has clear reasons – such as his Northland location and his involvement in projects up and down the country. Salesa, however, is based in Auckland where she is already well-placed to carry out her duties. Otherwise, her office is just down the road from the airport.”

“None of Salesa’s explanations, such as being particularly busy straight after the election, apply to her uniquely. So why is she spending more than her more highly-ranked colleagues?”

“If the Minister is so confident her spending is justified, she should provide an expense breakdown so taxpayers can judge for themselves whether it's good value for money.”

ENDS

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