Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent visit to Texas for trade discussions and tariff talks cost taxpayers approximately $93,000, as per a decision note acquired by CBC News through a freedom of information request. The total expense for the trip, which included a two-day preparatory mission to finalize logistics, amounted to $93,179, as outlined in the document. The note emphasized efforts to optimize outcomes while minimizing costs through various measures:
– Securing sponsorship from the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, reducing expenses by $7,500.
– Opting for a reception over a formal dinner or lunch at a venue with affordable rental and catering rates.
– Maintaining minimal staffing levels.
– Securing government-rate hotel accommodations.
Ford visited Houston, Dallas, and Austin during the trip, primarily engaging with business leaders and corporations. Notably, a planned meeting with Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a close ally of former President Trump, did not materialize.
The premier’s office defended the trip, highlighting the longstanding trade relationship between Texas and Ontario that benefits both regions’ families, workers, and businesses. They reported that Ford’s meetings with over 10 major employers in Texas laid the foundation for potential new investments worth billions of dollars, more job opportunities, and stronger economic ties between Ontario and the United States.
Opposition leaders criticized Ford’s trip, labeling it a misuse of public funds. NDP Leader Marit Stiles expressed skepticism about the trip’s impact on attracting investments, deeming it an excessively costly venture. Interim Liberal Leader John Fraser characterized the trip as a mere spectacle, questioning its achievements and advocating for diversifying trade partnerships beyond the U.S.
Green Party of Ontario Leader Mike Schreiner called for transparent and cost-effective travel practices by Ford, emphasizing accountability to taxpayers. Despite requests, the premier’s office did not disclose a detailed breakdown of the trip expenses in response to CBC News inquiries.
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