A recent poll indicates overwhelming public opposition to the expense account granted to former governors general, with a decisive majority calling for its termination.
Among respondents with an opinion, 85 % support eliminating the discretionary allowance, while only 15 % favor retaining it.
The allowance permits former vice‑regals to claim up to $206,040 in annual expenses, a benefit that continues for the rest of their lives after leaving office.
Historical records show that former governor general Adrienne Clarkson accrued more than $1.1 million in claims under the program after her term ended in 2005.
The position also includes a salary of $393,800 and a pension subject to automatic annual increases, creating a substantial long‑term fiscal commitment.
Recent former officeholders have drawn notable sums: Mary Simon recorded over $45,000 for new clothing within her first four years, and Julie Payette claimed approximately $50,000 for similar expenses.
Additional scrutiny follows costly trips, including $100,000 spent on in‑flight catering for a 2022 Middle East journey and nearly $300,000 for a four‑day visit to Reykjavik, of which $71,000 covered limousine services.
Newly appointed governor general Louise Arbour has signaled a willingness to curtail spending, announcing plans to eliminate the clothing allowance and urging broader reform.
Calls for permanent removal of the expense account have intensified, with advocates urging the government to end what they describe as an outdated taxpayer‑funded perk.
