Liberal Cabinet Ministers Accused of Using Private Planes Instead of Challenger Jets

Liberal cabinet ministers are facing criticism after Defence Minister David Collenette suggested that some of them are using private planes instead of the Challenger jets that have been at the center of controversy. The accusation comes from Reform Party MPs, who are accusing the Liberals of trying to do an end-run around public demands for frugal government. According to Mr. Collenette, some ministers are renting private planes at a high cost to the departments, and the Reform Party sees this as an attempt to circumvent the use of Challenger jets.

Key Takeaways:

• Defence Minister David Collenette suggested that some Liberal cabinet ministers are using private planes instead of the Challenger jets.
• Reform Party MPs are accusing the Liberals of trying to avoid using the Challenger jets due to public pressure.
• Private planes are reportedly being used at a higher cost to the departments.
• Reform Party MP Myron Thompson argues that private planes are not a cost-effective solution and that the Liberals are trying to "do an end-run" around public demands for frugal government.
• The use of private planes by cabinet ministers is not being monitored.
• Prime Minister Jean Chretien continues to defend the use of government-owned jets, stating that they were made in Canada and are necessary for ministerial travel.

Statistics:

• No specific data is provided on the number of cabinet ministers using private planes.
• The cost of renting private planes is reportedly higher than using the Challenger jets.
• The Challenger jets still incur costs even when not in use, including pilot salaries.

Sources:

• Toronto Star, March 1997
• Le Point news broadcast, January 1997
• Reform Party press release, January 1997
• Defence Minister David Collenette's interview with Radio-Canada TV