Consul-General from New York Summoned to Testify about Government’s $9M Condo Purchase

Canada’s consul-general to New York Tom Clark has been summoned to testify before a House committee regarding the government’s $9 million purchase of his official residence.

Originally scheduled to appear at the Aug. 27 meeting, Clark decided not to attend, citing leave, as reported by Conservative MP Michael Barrett.

Clark is now obligated by law to testify before the committee on or before Sept. 12.

Global Affairs informed The Epoch Times that Clark was not available on the initially proposed date but has expressed willingness to participate and is collaborating with the committee to determine an alternative date.

The committee has been examining the government’s decision to sell its former New York residence that contained its consulate general. The property was listed last week for over $13 million. Ottawa also acquired a $9 million Manhattan condo in an area known as “Billionaire’s Row.”

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Stéphane Cousineau, assistant deputy minister of the international platform at Global Affairs Canada, briefed the committee on Aug. 21 about the carefully planned replacement of the building, resulting in savings of $7.4 million for Canadians.

Cousineau highlighted that the building, acquired in 1961, was extensively used and concerns about its condition were raised in 2014. He emphasized the substantial savings and efficiencies achieved through the replacement process.

Real estate agent Thomas Aabo testified that the Canadian government’s purchase of the condo was below the average price for a standard condo in New York. He praised the investment as fiscally and functionally beneficial for Canada.

Barrett criticized the government’s decision to acquire the condo, citing redundancy and high costs for Canadians. He also questioned Clark’s absence and the reasons behind it.

Liberal MP Irek Kusmierczyk defended Clark’s appearance before the committee and the selection of a cost-effective property.