Gayton defends trip
The Citizen|October 16, 2024
JOYRIDE: DENIES CLAIM, SAYING HE HAD CHANCE TO MEET COLLEAGUES
Molefe Seeletsa
Gayton defends trip

Sports, arts and culture minister Gayton McKenzie has defended his trip to the 2024 Olympics in France, which cost taxpayers more than R800 000, amid criticism it was a “joyride”.

McKenzie recently revealed in a parliamentary reply that his department incurred a total cost of R804 597.71 for his trip to Paris. His flights cost R215 976.36, while R113 271 went towards accommodation and R454 005 for ground transport.

Additionally, R592.63 was paid by the department for insurance. McKenzie’s subsistence and travel allowance was R20 745.72.

After facing criticism for cancelling superfan travel plans upon taking office in July, McKenzie defended his decision to make the trip.

“I attended six meetings in Paris before the start of the Olympics. I went to the athletic village to meet our athletes. I attended the opening ceremony and watched the hockey, gymnastics and sevens game.

This story is from the October 16, 2024 edition of The Citizen.

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This story is from the October 16, 2024 edition of The Citizen.

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