Keep the GG pension, but cut expenses
Re Set limits for their expenses, Editorial, Nov. 5 The Governor General serves a term of five years with an annual salary of $290,660 and upon retirement they get a pension of $143,816. Once a governor general retires, their expense accounts should cease. If they wish to continue with charity work, attend openings and continue to engage in public relations, they should do so at their own expense. Many Canadians volunteer and do charity work without being able to claim any expenses. To claim expenses after retirement reflects poorly on the moral character of these royal parasites. Peter H. Breidon, Mississauga Former governor generals like Adrienne Clarkson can contribute greatly to Canadians. They should have tax payer transparency in their expenses and activities. A branch of the Office of the Governor General (GG) should also administer past GGs and be accountable, provide common public information and provide support for their continued contribution to Canada with personal assistants as warranted based on an annual action plan for each, with each former GG expressing their interest and plan. If such a public contribution is sought by the former governor general, or is expected as part of becoming the GG, they should be paid for their work. Is all or part of the $143,000 yearly “pension” for additional work? How much is for work? Pension? I suggest a lower pension and payment for working during retirement.
An open and transparent contribution to Canada is preferable to paid celebrity events as done by former important politicians and celebrities of other countries. Canadian should appreciate and encourage the good work done by former governor generals. Grant Wilson, President, Canadian Children’s Rights Council I am a Conservative and a republican. However, Canada is behind practically every other country in the world when it comes to providing support to our former leaders.
In the U.S., the former president receives a $200,000 pension for the rest of his life, paid immediately upon leaving office; lifetime security protection for him and his spouse, estimated to cost $3 million per year; and funding for an office and staff. In Canada, our former prime minister receives a pension that is slightly better than a retired schoolteacher, receives one retired RCMP officer bodyguard if they are going to a public event and are begrudged minimal office help funding. Former foreign affairs minister Pierre Pettigrew was correct. In the USA, they dislike government, but they respect those who serve in government. In Canada, we like government, but we are suspicious of those who serve. Wade Nassar, Toronto