Costly Visits: Prince Harry’s Security Expenses in Canada Revealed

A recent report has shed light on the significant financial burden placed on Canadian taxpayers due to Prince Harry's personal engagements in the country.

The Duke of Sussex, who has been accustomed to royal security throughout his life, reportedly incurred costs exceeding £250,000 during his frequent visits to Canada, particularly in the early stages of his relationship with Meghan Markle.

According to documents obtained by Canadian media, between January 2016 and February 2020, over $334,000 was spent on additional security measures provided by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for Prince Harry.

This amount was in addition to the salaries of the officers assigned to protect him, highlighting the substantial expenses involved in ensuring his safety during his visits.

CBC News reporter Elizabeth Thompson highlighted that the most expensive period in terms of security costs for Prince Harry was not when he and Meghan spent Christmas in Canada contemplating a partial relocation, but rather during the period from 2017 to 2018.

This timeframe coincided with Prince Harry's official engagements, including the Invictus Games that he founded, as well as public appearances alongside Meghan Markle, who was living in Toronto at the time.

During the Invictus Games opening ceremony, Meghan Markle, accompanied by Prince Harry and her friend Marcus Anderson, was observed being safeguarded by a Royalty Protection Squad officer.

Despite not being engaged to Prince Harry at the time and being considered a commoner, Meghan received protection during the event, albeit not funded by taxpayers.

The financial implications of Prince Harry's visits to Canada were substantial, with expenses totaling $182,430 between April 2017 and March 2018.

These costs encompassed overtime pay and travel expenses for security personnel, underscoring the significant investment required to ensure the safety of the Duke of Sussex during his time in the country.

Upon their move to Canada in 2020, Prince Harry, Meghan, and baby Archie continued to receive security provided by the RCMP, incurring monthly costs of approximately $33,000.

Assistant Commissioner Pierre-Yves Bourdieu emphasized the importance of protecting VIPs visiting Canada, citing the potential negative impact on the country's security reputation should any harm befall such individuals.

Following their decision to step back as active members of the Royal Family in January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan faced the loss of security provided by the firm.

Despite their efforts to carve out a new path away from the royal spotlight, the couple has encountered challenges and criticism, especially in light of their separation from the traditional royal framework.

In conclusion, the financial strain imposed on Canadian taxpayers due to Prince Harry's security expenses underscores the complexities and costs associated with maintaining the safety of prominent figures.

As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex navigate their post-royal lives, the scrutiny and challenges they face serve as a reminder of the intricate balance between public expectations, personal choices, and security considerations.