Title: Senator Justifies $22K Spending on English Classes in Vancouver

Quebec Senator Amina Gerba has defended her decision to spend nearly $22,000 on English language courses in Vancouver, a move that has sparked ethical concerns among some parliamentarians. Gerba and her husband participated in two 20-hour English courses at Collège Éducacentre in July 2023 and 2024. The tuition for each course was $1,521 per person, while travel expenses, including business-class airfare, hotel accommodations, and daily allowances, totaled $9,064.30 in the first year and $9,790.25 in the second.

Gerba, who represents the Rigaud division in Quebec, stated in a written response that she adhered to the Senate's office management policy, which allows for reimbursement of official language training and related travel expenses. The policy also permits senators' spouses to attend the same courses and receive reimbursement for their expenses.

Senator Raymonde Saint-Germain, a member of the Senate's standing committee on internal economy, budgets, and administration, has raised questions about the appropriateness of such spending. "Is it reasonable just because it's allowed? In my opinion, no," she said. The committee is set to review the guidelines for language training at an upcoming meeting. Saint-Germain emphasized the importance of mastering both official languages but questioned whether the current approach is the most effective and cost-efficient.

Gerba explained that her husband's presence during the trips helped her maintain family balance while fulfilling her official duties. She argued that traveling across Canada is essential for her role as a senator. "These trips are not only an opportunity to improve my English and better understand the realities and issues facing the different provinces, but also a way to enrich my cultural perspective and discover the diversity that makes our country so rich," she stated.

Critics, including Bloc Québécois MP Christine Normandin and NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice, have called for Gerba to reimburse what they consider unjustified travel expenses. Normandin remarked, "Going away with your spouse, to a relatively popular destination, in business class, twice, for only a few hours … it gives the impression that it was more of a vacation than a real desire to learn a language." Boulerice pointed out that similar English courses are available in Montreal, which is closer to Gerba's home.

The Senate is currently reviewing not only language training expenses but also regional familiarization tours. Last June, reports surfaced about a $118,000 trip to Alberta that included visits to the Calgary Stampede and Lake Louise, which some senators found inappropriate. A survey regarding these familiarization trips has been distributed, and many senators are advocating for stricter regulations moving forward. The standing committee is expected to announce its findings in the coming weeks.