The federal government says it is looking for ways to make an expense program for former governors general more transparent after almost 50 years of secrecy. The program allows the five living former governors general to each bill the government up to $206,000 annually for office expenses, travel, and other costs, according to a 2024 report by the Office of the Auditor General.
In a statement to CBC News on May 26, 2026, a spokesperson for the Department of Canadian Heritage said the government is 'actively exploring options to increase transparency and accountability' for the program, which has been criticized for its lack of public oversight. The program was established in 1979 and has operated with minimal disclosure since then.
The Auditor General's 2024 report found that the program lacks clear guidelines and that expenses are not subject to the same scrutiny as other government programs. The report recommended that the government develop a framework for reporting and monitoring expenses. The five former governors general are: Michaëlle Jean, David Johnston, Julie Payette, Mary Simon, and Adrienne Clarkson.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a press conference on May 25, 2026, that the government is committed to addressing the issue. 'We want to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly, and that includes making sure this program is transparent,' Trudeau said. No specific timeline for changes has been announced.
