Proceedings of the Standing Committee on
Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration
Issue 2 - Evidence for October 22, 2009
OTTAWA, Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration met this day at 8:35 a.m., in camera, to consider administrative matters; and in public to consider other matters.
Senator George J. Furey (Chair) in the chair.
[English]
The Chair: We will go public for the next item on the agenda, which is the fourteenth report of the Subcommittee on the Review of Committee Budgets and International Travel.
[Translation]
Senator Robichaud: Thank you, Mr. Chair. You have before you the fourteenth report of the Subcommittee on the Review of Committee Budgets and International Travel.
Your subcommittee considered a request from the Honourable Senator Dyck to attend a series of cultural events in Guandong Province in the People's Republic of China, from November 8 to 15, 2009.
The subcommittee recommends that approval be granted for the senator to use the 64-point travel system to cover the cost of air fare and other travel-related costs in an amount not to exceed $2,500.
Respectfully submitted, the members of the subcommittee, Senators Cordy, MacDonald and myself. Mr. Chair, I move the adoption of this report.
[English]
Senator Jaffer: I have a question related to all travel. I imagine that Senator Dyck will travel economy. Some might apply for economy class and some for business class. Perhaps not this time, but we should have an appropriate policy on the class of air travel. Every senator must be treated equally when they travel rather than have different treatment for different senators.
The Chair: It seems to me that $2,500 is for airfare and related travel costs for a week in China. Does that include accommodations?
Senator Robichaud: The accommodations would be taken over by the people who invited her. There are just a few accommodations; I think there is one night that she wants to pay for herself, which is $200. The meals are mostly provided, but there is a proviso there for $200.
When we saw the airfare, we asked her to explain the $1,860 to go to China and return. We did not believe it, but she had booked it. I offered that she could be my travel agent.
Senator Downe: I would like to support Senator Jaffer's comments because I was struck by that amount, as were others. Some people have access to upgrade certificates and other things they can use that other people do not have. I think we should have a consistent policy. Given the distance she is travelling and the cost, it is something the subcommittee should consider.
The Chair: We can ask Senator Robichaud to consider that suggestion and make recommendations to the full committee in that regard.
Senator Robichaud: I agree, but in this case — pardon me?
Senator Nolin: That is what she asked.
Senator Robichaud: In this case, it would have meant that we were saying, "You have not asked for enough money, so we will give you more."
I agree that every senator should be treated the same. When they travel, they should have the same facilities and services. We are always mindful of the amount of money we approve for international travel. If the subcommittee is directed to take a closer look, we will certainly do that and advise senators accordingly.
The Chair: Are there any other questions, colleagues?
All those in favour of the motion?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
The Chair: Contra-minded?
Carried.
Thank you very much, colleagues. Based on the motion of Senator Nolin, the steering committee will come back to the full committee with recommendations on going forward with respect to this morning's presentation.
(The committee adjourned.)