The House committee has summoned Canada’s consul-general to New York, Tom Clark, to testify about the government’s $9 million purchase of his official residence.
Clark, who was scheduled to appear on Aug. 27, did not show up, citing being on leave, as per Conservative MP Michael Barrett.
Clark is now legally obligated to testify before the committee by Sept. 12.
Global Affairs informed The Epoch Times that Clark was initially unavailable but has since expressed willingness to attend and is coordinating with the committee for a new date.
The committee is investigating the government’s decision to sell its previous New York residence and purchase a $9 million condo in Manhattan’s “Billionaire’s Row.”
Related Stories
has said
the new condo is smaller and more suitable, noting that the previous residence did not comply with the 2021 Accessible Canada Act that mandates barrier-free environments.
Stéphane Cousineau, assistant deputy minister of the international platform at Global Affairs Canada, informed the committee on Aug. 21 that the building replacement was carefully planned, saving $7.4 million for Canadians.
Cousineau mentioned that the building was acquired in 1961 and was extensively used, but concerns about its condition were raised in 2014.
Real estate agent Thomas Aabo testified that the Canadian government paid below the average price for a standard condo in New York and made a savvy investment.
Barrett criticized the government’s decision, questioning the need for the condo purchase at a time when Canadians are facing financial challenges.
Liberal MP Irek Kusmierczyk defended Clark’s appearance before the committee and the government’s choice of a cost-effective property.
Please provide a different version.
Source link
