Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu speaks during Question Period at the House of Commons. December 11, 2019.  (Screenshot from video of Question Period)Sarnia-Lambton MP Marilyn Gladu speaks during Question Period at the House of Commons. December 11, 2019. (Screenshot from video of Question Period)
Sarnia

Gladu's bill looks to block short-term governors general pensions

Sarnia-Lambton's Conservative MP introduced a private member's bill in the House of Commons this week.

Marilyn Gladu's motion would prevent any future governor general from getting pension and benefits unless they serve in the position for five years, excluding medical reasons.

This comes in response to Julie Payette's resignation three and a half years into her term due to accusations of creating a toxic workplace at Rideau Hall.

Gladu said Payette will receive more than $300,000 annually for the rest of her life.

"I think that we need to come more in line with the private sector where you wouldn't see somebody that left the job in disgrace under allegations of harassment receiving a huge pension and a lot of expense compensation."

Gladu said the chance of her bill getting heard in the House of Commons is low because she is 244th in the lottery for the reading of private member's bills.

"I'm trying to negotiate with my party to be able to bring in a 'unanimous consent motion' to move this along," she said. "That would see it passed at all stages, approved, and sent on to the Senate so it could pass into law yet this year."

Gladu said the bill could die on the order paper if there's a Federal election.

Chief Justice Richard Wagner is fulfilling the duties of the governor general until a recommendation for a replacement is provided to Queen Elizabeth II.

Read More Local Stories