GGs shouldn’t get lifetime expenses covered
Re PM urges transparency for GGs’ expenses, Nov. 1
That former governor general Adrienne Clarkson has been able to bill the Canadian taxpayer for over a million dollars is almost criminal. She should be made to repay most of it. Ex GGs and LGs should not be able to make such claims say after two years out of office.
Of course, why a supposedly independent nation of more than 150 years continues to regard a foreign monarch to be it’s head of state, requiring a “representative,” is the real problem. How many millions would be saved if the GG and LGs were eliminated? Robert Drummond, Exeter, Ont. Many governors general have enjoyed great success carrying out their duties to and for Canadians. The former governor general David Johnston is a great example. Others have enjoyed their fair share of controversy. One has racked up close to a million in travel expenses since leaving this position.
This appointment is a five year assignment to a sinecure position with a great annual salary ($289,000) plus expenses, a beautiful residence with chef and kitchen staff, great perks, great pension, great benefits and great travel expenses for life.
For the prime minister to suggest that “these people stepped up” to accept this job is a bit of hyperbole. It sounds like nobody would want it. I can only think it’s a position devoutly wished for by thousands of qualified Canadians who would gladly line up for the opportunity
However, the point has nothing to do with the job per se, but the lifetime travel expenses the incumbents enjoy once their term is over. Why should we, the public, pick up this tab? If a company, organization or another government wishes to invite them as a guest, then let them pay for it. If the travel is personal, then don’t expect the taxpayer to foot the bill.
These expenses could be better redirected to more humane endeavours for our citizens. Frank Feeley, Fonthill, Ont.