Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent journey to Texas for discussions on trade and tariffs cost taxpayers just over $93,000, as per a decision document obtained by CBC News through a freedom of information request. The total expenditure for the trip, which included a two-day preliminary mission to finalize logistics, amounted to $93,179, according to the decision note. The document emphasized efforts to optimize outcomes and minimize costs, citing various cost-saving strategies such as securing sponsorship from the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan to reduce expenses by $7,500, opting for a reception instead of a costly dinner or lunch at a venue with affordable rental and catering fees, maintaining minimal staffing levels, and securing government-rate hotel accommodations.
During his visit to Houston, Dallas, and Austin, Ford engaged mainly with business leaders and companies. Notably, a planned meeting with Texas governor and prominent Trump supporter Greg Abbott did not materialize. Ford’s office defended the trip, highlighting the longstanding trade relationship between Texas and Ontario, which benefits families, workers, and businesses on both sides of the border. The office asserted that the trip facilitated meetings with over 10 major employers, laying the groundwork for potential new investments worth billions of dollars, job creation, and stronger economic ties between Ontario and the United States.
Opposition leaders criticized the trip as a misuse of funds, with NDP Leader Marit Stiles questioning the lack of visible returns from the journey. Interim Liberal Leader John Fraser labeled it a “dog and pony show” and expressed skepticism about its accomplishments due to the absence of a meeting with the governor. Green Party of Ontario Leader Mike Schreiner emphasized the importance of transparent spending by government officials when traveling abroad.
The decision note did not provide a detailed breakdown of the trip’s expenses, despite CBC News requesting one from the premier’s office. The article did not include a detailed breakdown of the costs incurred during the trip.