Mark Carney Faces Transparency Questions After Hidden Allowance Program Sparks Political Debate
OTTAWA: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says he will review a controversial government expense program after former governors general claimed more than $554,000 in taxpayer-funded reimbursements last year under a little-known allowance system criticized for lacking transparency.
Secretive Expense Program Sparks Questions in Canada
The decades-old program allows former governors general to bill the federal government for expenses connected to their public activities after leaving office.
According to figures released by Rideau Hall, the government paid out approximately $554,000 including taxes during the 2024–25 fiscal year to support five former governors general.
However, officials refused to publicly disclose who received the money or exactly how the funds were spent.
Carney Promises to Examine Transparency Concerns
When questioned about the expense system during a news conference announcing Louise Arbour as Canada’s next governor general, Carney admitted he was unaware of the full details but pledged to examine the issue.
“I’ll look into it, ensure that there’s adequate transparency around the expenses,” Carney said.
He also defended former governors general, saying they had “served the country with distinction” and continue contributing to charitable and public initiatives.
Former Governors General Can Claim Expenses for Life
The reimbursement program, first introduced in 1979, allows each former governor general to claim up to $206,040 annually in addition to receiving pensions.
The benefits continue for life and can even extend for up to six months after death.
Eligible expenses are supposed to be linked to official duties, charitable work or public responsibilities connected to their time representing the Crown in Canada.
Trudeau-Era Review Warned Program Lacked Accountability
The program previously faced scrutiny under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who ordered an independent review in 2019 amid growing criticism over secrecy and accountability.
Former federal consultant Alain Séguin concluded in his report that the system had not been properly updated in over 40 years and failed to meet modern transparency standards.
The review warned the public reporting structure was “ill-suited” for explaining how taxpayer money was being used.
Political Pressure Growing Over Public Spending
The latest revelations are expected to increase political pressure on the Canadian government to provide detailed public reporting on expense claims involving former high-ranking officials.
Critics argue taxpayers deserve full disclosure regarding public funds, while supporters say former governors general continue performing important national and charitable work after leaving office.