Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, Editorial Cartoonist, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 8, 2008
PM’s residence needs $10 million in repairs
The prime minister and his family may have to pack up and find a new temporary home if they heed the advice of Canada’s auditor general.
A report released by Sheila Fraser on Tuesday states that “24 Sussex Drive (is) showing signs of fatigue and wear, and (requires) extensive repair work.”
The repairs are estimated to cost about $10 million, and the report notes that “prolonged access to 24 Sussex Drive will be required for rehabilitation of the residence.” That would require the prime minister and his family to move out for up to 15 months.
“We note in the report that there have been no repairs to 24 Sussex in 50 years. I think we can all appreciate in our own homes that you have to do this regular upgrading and maintenance on a very frequent basis,” she said.
John Williamson of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation says he doesn’t believe most people will have a problem with making the repairs. But he said what politicians should be concerned about is going over budget, as has been the case with similar public projects in the past. He also said the $10 million price tag for repairs may baffle some taxpayers. (Source: CTV News)
The Ottawa Citizen
Thursday, May 15, 2008
I enjoyed the Citizen’s editorial cartoon showing Stephen Harper tied up in plastic wrap and Mike Holmes saying that “vapour barrier sheeting helps in the removal of stubborn obstacles.” I believe that it would make great sense to have the popular host of the TV show Holmes on Homes handle the needed renovations at the Prime Minister’s residence, and film the work for his TV show. The house at 24 Sussex Drive is a national heritage building and the Canadians would appreciate a good look at it. I’m sure that a monthly review of the on-going work would be of interest to all Canadians.
Denis Rondeau
Gracefield, Que.
