The Lanzarote branch of the PSOE has raised concerns over the Cabildo’s expenditure of €25,559 on a trip to Hawaii for Sports Councillor Juan Monzón and two of his team members to attend the Ironman World Championship. The trip took place from October 5 to 14 and was fully funded by the island’s governing body, according to a report provided to the Socialist Group following their request for information.
Socialist councillor Benjamín Perdomo described the spending as “excessive” and has called for an explanation from Cabildo President Oswaldo Betancort. “Three people, ten days, and over €25,500 charged to the Cabildo. Betancort must clarify why his government deemed it necessary to cover such costs for attending the Ironman in Hawaii. The money from Lanzarote deserves better management,” he stated.
The documentation details that Monzón’s share amounted to €9,265.14, including €4,111.99 for accommodation, €2,462.41 for flights and transport, €1,750 for food and insularity allowances, €400 for a rental car, and €540.74 for other approved expenses.
The other two delegates incurred expenses of €8,152.03 and €8,142.02, respectively. Accommodation costs for the trio totalled €12,335.97, nearly half of the overall trip expenditure.
“Monzón’s accommodation alone exceeds €4,100, along with an additional €1,750 for food and allowances. This is acknowledged by the Cabildo itself. We want to see the invoices and understand the criteria used to authorise this spending,” Perdomo added.
The report justified the trip by citing meetings with Ironman officials, observations of organisational aspects of the event, and preparations for the 2027 Lanzarote edition. However, the PSOE argues these reasons do not clarify the necessity of sending three individuals for ten days or what specific commitments were made to warrant the substantial cost.
