Just the Facts: Conservatives Increase Spending on PMO Spin, Cut Funds for Veterans’ Funerals

October 31, 2013

In 2012-2013, after 10 years of fairly steady funding, the Last Post Fund, which helps pay for veterans’ funerals, was cut by a whopping 21.8%. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister increased his own office budget by 7.4%.

Instead of money for our fallen heroes, the Harper Conservatives are spending Canadians’ tax dollars on PMO staff and spin.

It is simply unacceptable that this government has chosen to invest in additional staff to control their caucus members and their message – in the midst of the ongoing PMO-Senate scandal – over our courageous women and men in uniform, who have made great sacrifices in the service of this country.

The numbers: Changes in spending from 2012 to 2013

Prime Minister’s Office: from $7,650,537 to $8,215,183 –> +7.4%

Total PMO and Ministers’ offices: from $53,177,725 to $56,084,822 –> + 5.5%

Last Post Fund: from $10,100,000 to $7,900,000 –> – 21.8%

Source: Public Accounts of Canada, Volume II and III