Documents obtained by CBC News through a freedom of information request show that the spring visit by Ontario Premier Doug Ford to Texas for discussions on trade and tariffs incurred a total expense of slightly over $93,000 for taxpayers.
The decision note revealed that the overall cost for the multi-day trip, which also included a two-day preliminary mission to arrange logistics, amounted to $93,179.
The document emphasized that efforts were made to optimize outcomes and minimize expenses.
The decision note outlined several cost-saving measures implemented during the trip, including securing sponsorship from the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, opting for a reception instead of pricier meal options, 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. However, his anticipated meeting with Texas governor Greg Abbott, a close ally of former President Trump, did not materialize.
Office of the Premier Highlights New Investment Prospects
In response to criticisms, the premier’s office defended the trip by highlighting the enduring trade relationship between Texas and Ontario, asserting that it benefits families, workers, and businesses on both sides of the border.
The office stated that during the Texas visit, Ford met with more than ten significant employers, laying the groundwork for potential new investments worth billions of dollars, additional well-paying jobs, and stronger economic ties between Ontario and the United States.
The office also highlighted that Texas accounts for nearly half of Canada’s total trade with the state, ranking second in exports to Ontario and fourth in imports from the province.
While opposition leaders criticized the trip as wasteful, NDP Leader Marit Stiles expressed skepticism about the trip’s impact on attracting investments. Interim Liberal Leader John Fraser labeled the trip as a “dog and pony show,” questioning its achievements without a meeting with the governor and urging for diversification of trade partnerships beyond the U.S.
Green Party of Ontario Leader Mike Schreiner emphasized the need for transparent spending, urging Ford to avoid extravagance in travel expenses at taxpayers’ expense.
Despite requests for a breakdown of expenses, the premier’s office did not provide one in its response to CBC News.