Senate curbs spending on language training, spousal travel
Advertisement
Read this article for free:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
We need your support!
Local journalism needs your support!
As we navigate through unprecedented times, our journalists are working harder than ever to bring you the latest local updates to keep you safe and informed.
Now, more than ever, we need your support.
Starting at $15.99 plus taxes every four weeks you can access your Brandon Sun online and full access to all content as it appears on our website.
Subscribe Nowor call circulation directly at (204) 727-0527.
Your pledge helps to ensure we provide the news that matters most to your community!
To continue reading, please subscribe:
Add Brandon Sun access to your Winnipeg Free Press subscription for only
$1 for the first 4 weeks*
*$1 will be added to your next bill. After your 4 weeks access is complete your rate will increase by $4.99 a X percent off the regular rate.
Read unlimited articles for free today:
or
Already have an account? Log in here »
OTTAWA – The Senate is no longer allowing senators to be reimbursed for spouses receiving language training.
The changes were passed yesterday at a Senate committee meeting on internal economy, budgets and administration.
The changes were made after Radio-Canada reported this week that Quebec Sen. Amina Gerba billed taxpayers nearly $22,000 for two English-language training courses in Vancouver for herself and her husband in 2023 and 2024.
Senators also will now be encouraged to either take the free language courses offered by the House of Commons or take classes in the National Capital Region or their home province.
Senate officials told yesterday’s hearing that 16 senators took the free courses last year, but did not say how many others travelled to take classes.
The committee also passed a motion imposing a moratorium on reimbursing senators who bring their spouses along on duty travel.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 3, 2025.