Corporate Welfare Getting Ridiculous
21 May 2014
Reacting to John Key’s announcement this morning regarding the Tourism Growth Partnerships, Jordan Williams, Executive Director of the Taxpayers’ Union, says:
“It’s ridiculous that John Key is celebrating $26.8 million of grants paid for by hard working taxpayers and directed to
a few favoured companies.”
The announcements include Kiwi taxpayers giving $123,500 to a book a bach business.
“Hospitals, schools, and kiwi taxpayers missed out because politicians want to hand money to a private company to rent
holiday homes. Great money if you can get it, but how on earth can the Government justify picking favourites in this
area? John Key should focus on lowering the tax burden for all, not dishing out grants to sexy industries and pet
businesses.”
“As we’ve seen, these sorts of arrangements leave the Government vulnerable to allegations of cronyism and cabinet club
deals," concludes Mr Williams.
The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union is a non-partisan activist group, dedicated to being the voice for Kiwi taxpayers in
the corridors of power. It’s here to fight government waste and make sure New Zealanders get value for money from their
tax dollar.
ENDS