The Opposition raised concern over the expensive flight last week when they questioned Ghiz’s airfare expenses for the trip and pointed out they were more than double the amount incurred by Innovation Minister Allen Roach, who was one of several officials on the same trip.
The premier was out of the province last week and could not answer to the Opposition’s criticisms of his expenses.
Today in the legislature, Ghiz acknowledged he flew first class on the flight. But he stressed his ticket was the last one available for the flight and he needed to get back to Canada in time to prepare for meetings with Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
“Every trip I’ve taken with the exception of this one half-way trip back from India, I’ve booked economy tickets but unfortunately under this circumstance it was the last ticket available for the flight,” Ghiz said.
Opposition MLA Steven Myers brought up statements made last week by Finance Minister Wes Sheridan when he defended Ghiz’s spending on this flight, calling Ghiz ‘head of state.’
Then Myers took a shot at Ghiz.
“My question to the emperor, excuse me, the premier, do you think you are entitled to special treatment from taxpayers?”
Ghiz said no, but pointed out Treasury Board policy states cabinet ministers have discretion to choose first or business class tickets if their flights last more than three hours.
Myers said he’s been hearing from many Islanders incensed to hear of this expense at a time of downturn.
He also questioned Ghiz on the fact his hotel bills for this trip were higher than Roach’s hotel costs.
“You’re firing hundreds of people, you’re cutting services to thousands of Islanders, you’re cutting dialysis… why do you see it so fit to carry on such a lavish style when you’re putting it to Islanders every single day?” Myer said.
Ghiz once again stressed he usually flies economy even though he does have the option of upgrading for longer flights.
“With regards to hotel bills, I think they were quite similar at the end of day.”
Myers is calling for a detailed breakdown of Ghiz’s expenses on this trip. He also called for Ghiz to apologize and pay back the added costs of the first class plane ticket.
Ghiz said he would only commit to continue his normal practice of flying economy – unless there are no other tickets available.
Ghiz and Roach were in India as part of a trade mission to promote P.E.I. as a business location for Indian companies.
Original Article
Source: theguardian.pe.ca
Author: Teresa Wright
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