Ottawa's $9 million purchase of an apartment in New York is defended by a real estate agent who claims the price was below asking

Tom Clark, Canada's consul-general in New York, has agreed to testify before a Commons committee regarding the purchase of a $9-million condo for his official residence. The purchase has faced criticism from the federal Conservative opposition, who consider it an unnecessary expense.

However, Global Affairs Canada has defended the decision, stating that the government stands to gain $13 million from the sale of the previous Manhattan residence, which has served as the consul-general’s home since 1961.

Senior officials from Global Affairs recently testified that Mr. Clark had no involvement in the search, decision-making, or negotiations related to the new property.

The committee's chair, Conservative MP Kelly McCauley, announced that Mr. Clark is expected to appear on September 4 or 12, marking his first public comments on the matter.

Conservative MP Michael Barrett expressed concerns over inconsistencies regarding whether Mr. Clark would appear, suggesting that if he does not, he should be summoned.

Barrett described Clark, a former journalist appointed to the diplomatic post in 2023, as a “member of the Liberal elite.” Clark had previously moderated a 2022 debate for candidates in the Conservative leadership race, which Pierre Poilievre won. The office of Mr. Poilievre has not clarified whether the Conservatives would sell the property if they were to gain power.

During Tuesday’s hearing, real estate agent Thomas Aabo, who was involved in the condo purchase, testified virtually from New York. He described the deal as a well-executed investment, noting that the property was acquired at 40 percent below the initial asking price, which is uncommon.

Aabo also mentioned that most major foreign governments have significant real estate investments in midtown Manhattan, where the condo is located.

Global Affairs Canada has indicated that the previous consul-general residence, which is being sold, was last renovated in 1982 and needed significant updates, costing an estimated $2.6 million. The new residence at 111 West 57th St., in Manhattan’s “Billionaires’ Row,” will serve not only as the consul-general’s home but also as a venue for official events.

Real estate appraiser Jonathan Miller testified that nearly all consulates in New York, including 95 percent of the 136 consulates, are situated in the same area.