Religious sect Gloriavale has applied for funding from Shane Jones' regional growth fund.
1 News is reporting that Gloriavale leaders are seeking millions of dollars to fund a new health food company.
Regional Economic Minister Shane Jones has defended Gloriavale, saying the sect has every right to apply for the money, but there's no guarantee it will get it.
Massey University researcher Peter Lineham told Larry Williams that the group is very opportunistic, and this would be just another opportunity to advance their profile.
“This gives them an opportunity, if they were to get it, for significant money to invest in what potentially could be a pretty good programme and perhaps garner a bit of public support."
LISTEN TO PETER LINEHAM TALK WITH LARRY WILLIAMS ABOVE
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