Macpherson says R186 150 hotel stay was cheaper than official residence
Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson says his department saved money by using hotel accommodation in Gauteng instead of renting or buying a ministerial residence.
Minister Dean Macpherson has defended a hotel stay in Gauteng, claiming it was cheaper than renting a ministerial residence. This comes after an MP questioned the ethics of spending taxpayers' money on hotel accommodation. In July, Macpherson reported a cost of R186,150 for 65 nights in July 2024 to June 2026. The Minister explained that acquiring a ministerial house in Pretoria would have been more expensive due to security, staff, and maintenance costs.
Abader requested details about the stays and independent assessments of savings. Macpherson clarified that alternative accommodation was more cost-effective due to the expansion of the executive. He also noted the high costs of maintaining parliamentary villages, totaling close to R250 million since June 2024. Macpherson emphasized the need to find cheaper alternatives for accommodation, such as a housing allowance, to alleviate the state's burden of municipal charges and maintenance costs.
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