Wednesday 8 March 2017

Newcastle Councillor Weighs In On Overseas Travel Debate

BY IAN CROUCH

A Newcastle councillor says ratepayers shouldn't have to foot the bill for their overseas trips.

Liberal councillor, Brad Luke says councillors should pay for their own flights when they attend overseas meetings.

Council has spent $83,000 on five overseas trips during the current term and Brad Luke has told Fairfax they don't appear to have any direct benefit to the community.

But, Labor councillor, Declan Clausen has accused Brad Luke of hypocrisy, saying his trip to the United States for a Future Cities study tour with then General Manager, Ken Gouldthorp cost ratepayers more than $30,000 even though Councillor Luke paid for his own airfares and conference registration.

Councillor Brad Luke