Prince Harry and Meghan Markle seem to have an uncanny ability to rack up expenses at the cost of hardworking taxpayers.
This time, it's Canadians footing the bill for their so-called royal vacation—though some might call it just another extravagant tour disguised as public engagements. According to CTV News, Vancouver Police recorded 400 overtime hours dedicated to providing security for the couple during their 2024 visit, which was meant to prepare for the 2025 Invictus Games. These weren’t just casual city walks requiring minor assistance; they were fully paid security hours. In just two days, Canadian taxpayers were left with a staggering $44,000 bill.
That amount only covers overtime costs, not even factoring in the police force’s standard duties. If this trend continues over the full eight days of the Invictus Games, Vancouver could be looking at $176,000 in overtime expenses alone. Considering potential salary adjustments and rising security costs—especially with tensions from the U.S.-Canada trade dispute—the final price tag could land somewhere between $200,000 and $250,000. The question is: should Canadians really be burdened with these costs for an event that ultimately benefits Harry and Meghan financially? Tickets for the games are still available, proving it hasn’t exactly generated the excitement they might have hoped for.
Given the mounting frustration, it’s likely there will be more Freedom of Information requests regarding the expenses tied to these games. In a time when inflation is soaring, jobs are at risk, and economic uncertainty looms, does it make sense to funnel taxpayer money into what feels more like a vanity project than a prestigious international event? The couple continues their well-rehearsed charm offensive, promoting themselves as philanthropists, but the reality seems far less altruistic and significantly more wasteful.
It wouldn’t be surprising if they attempted another dramatic stunt, similar to the so-called "near-catastrophic" car chase they claimed happened in New York. In Vancouver, they could once again escalate security concerns, insisting they are targeted due to their royal connections—despite no longer holding official titles or having any significant influence. The cycle repeats: heightened security, exaggerated threats, and a desperate play for public sympathy.
The truth is, most people in Vancouver and Whistler are unlikely to be particularly invested in their presence. If anything, there’s a strong chance they could be met with boos rather than admiration should they attempt to bask in the royal spotlight once again. The public and even the veterans attending the games might not be so eager to welcome them, considering the drama surrounding their previous departures from Canada.
Ultimately, the real question remains: why do Harry and Meghan require such extensive security in the first place? They are no longer working royals, they do not represent the British monarchy, and they are now private citizens. So why should Canadian taxpayers, already facing their own financial struggles, be forced to cover their security, travel, and accommodations? Not a single public dollar should be wasted on them. It’s time for Canada to put its foot down and refuse to bankroll the extravagant lifestyles of two people who are neither needed nor particularly wanted.
