Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticised for $21m private jet purchase
Summary
Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s government bought a used private jet for C$28.9 million ($21 million) to support his travel, including trips to the US to address tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The purchase has faced criticism from political opponents and taxpayer groups who say it is an unnecessary expense during tough economic times.Key Facts
- The private jet is a Bombardier Challenger 650, built in Canada in 2016.
- Ford’s office says the jet will be used for official government business, including travel within Ontario, across Canada, and to the US.
- The jet purchase price is significantly less than Quebec’s purchase of a similar fleet for emergency air ambulance services.
- Ontario opposition leaders and a taxpayers' group have criticized the purchase as insensitive to people struggling financially.
- Ford previously chartered private planes but now owns this jet to allow more flexible and secure travel.
- Ontario approved Ford’s third consecutive majority government in 2023, but his approval rating remains low.
- Ford frequently appears in US media to oppose tariffs and recently met with officials in Texas.
- The federal government of Canada has bought six new Bombardier jets for official and military use, costing C$753 million.
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