Response to: Canadian Press article published in the Winnipeg Free Press
"Consular services for Canadians abroad created $5.2-million deficit last year" (December 4th, 2011)
As an organization representing Canadians who live and work overseas, I was interested to read your article about consular services for Canadians creating a $5.2 million deficit last year.
While this may seem like a large number, one needs to put these expenditures in context with the benefits Canada gains because we have a system that supports our citizens abroad.
Your readers may ask, “How does Canada benefit by supporting our expats?” How about this example: close to $5 billion in bilateral trade was generated last year from one Canadian organization in just one US state (Canada-Arizona Business Council - the CABC). There are organizations like the CABC all around the globe. Canadian Chambers of Commerce, Business Councils and even Social Networks are located in virtually every major city of the world and are run exclusively by Canadians for the benefit of Canada. A solid system of support and a safety net available in times of emergencies encourage Canadian expats to continue to foster these relationships that all Canadians benefit from.
We spend or donate far greater than $5.2 million a year to assist others in times of emergencies around the world. Why would we not spend this much on our own citizens, especially since they contribute billions of dollars that are a positive force in the Canadian economy? Other nations, including New Zealand, Australia, the United States, China, the United Kingdom and India are spending more than ever before on their expats simply because they recognize the value they represent.
Is $5.2 million a lot of money? Perhaps not, considering what Canada gains in return.