The investigation into the suspended Green MP has so far cost $43,000

The investigation against suspended Green MP Darleen Tana has so far cost $43,000.

The List MP resigned on March 14 after allegations of migrant exploitation emerged in connection with her husband’s e-bike business.

The money comes from the Green Party leader’s office budget, which is financed through the parliamentary service and paid for by taxpayers.

“Natural justice is important to the Greens and that is why an independent investigation is taking place into the very serious allegations surrounding Darleen Tana, which has so far cost $43,000,” a Greens spokesman said.

She was absent from work and absenteeism for half of Parliament’s sitting days this year, but continued to collect her full salary.

Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick told the Morning Report on Monday that she was unable to produce the inquiry report but hoped it would be completed soon.

The investigation, led by lawyer Rachel Burt, has now lasted nine weeks but no report has yet been produced as the party’s co-leaders have not set a deadline.

“I think the process of natural justice requires that people not be suspended without pay based on these allegations alone. “Again, the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ is crucial in a country like ours,” Swarbrick said.

rnz.co.nz