OTTAWA, ON: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to eliminate the taxpayer-funded expense account for former governors general after a new Leger poll found most Canadians support ending the perk.

“Canadians are delivering a clear message with this poll: It’s time to end this taxpayer-funded perk for former governors general,” said Franco Terrazzano, CTF Federal Director. “Taxpayers shouldn’t be on the hook for up to $200,000 every year in discretionary expenses.”

Former governors general can claim up to $206,000 annually for miscellaneous expenses for the rest of their lives, in addition to receiving a taxpayer-funded pension.

The expense account can even be used to cover eligible expenses for up to six months after a former governor general dies.

The Leger poll asked Canadians what should happen to the expense account for former governors general. Results show:

• 71 per cent said end it
• 13 per cent said keep it
• 16 per cent said they don’t know

Among Canadians with an opinion, 85 per cent support eliminating the expense account, while just 15 per cent want to keep it.

The poll comes after Carney said his government would review the former governors general expense account following reports that the program paid out more than $550,000 last year.

Newly appointed Governor General Louise Arbour notified members of Parliament that she is cutting her clothing allowance, according to Blacklock's Reporter.

“Carney should eliminate this outdated expense account once and for all,” Terrazzano said. “Arbour has already shown a willingness to reform Rideau Hall and should continue that work by ending the expense account for former governors general.”

For more information or to schedule interviews, please contact:

Franco Terrazzano
CTF Federal Director
Phone: 403.918.3532
Email: [email protected]