Premier Ford Apologizes Over Cabinet Hotel Spending
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
Ontario's leader vows a 'microscope' on expenses after ministers and MPPs charged thousands for downtown Toronto hotels.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford issued an apology Monday following revelations that members of his party and cabinet used taxpayer funds to pay for downtown Toronto hotels instead of commuting home, according to Global News Toronto.
Reporting from Global News Toronto indicates that former tourism minister Stan Cho charged taxpayers over $16,000 for hotel stays despite residing only six kilometres from Queen’s Park. Cho has since resigned and stated he repaid the full amount, calling the spending a “mistake.”
Further expenditures involved three Peel Region MPPs serving as ministers or parliamentary assistants who represent ridings between 35 and 45 km from Queen’s Park. Global News Toronto reports that Hardeep Grewal charged the legislature $27,275 over three years, while Nina Tangri spent $18,976 and Charmaine Williams claimed $15,865.
Premier Ford described the spending as ‟unacceptable” and stated that all involved party members are being required to repay the legislature. Ford pledged to put a “microscope” on the issue to ensure it does not recur.
Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized the Premier, stating in a statement cited by Global News Toronto that Ford sets the tone for his caucus and is responsible for the party culture.