A blog advocating for taxpayers in Canada has obtained internal RCMP documents that reveal how much it cost for police to provide security for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their short stay in the country.
According to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, these documents show that between November 18 2019 and January 19 2020, the RCMP spent at least $56,384 on security for the couple.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex spent a few months in Canada recently, including several weeks before and after Christmas at a house in North Saanich.
“More than $50,000 is nothing to sneeze at, especially when you consider the fact that this is taxpayers’ money covering bills for one of the most famous and wealthy couples in the world,” said Aaron Wudrick, Federal Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, in a statement.
“Had the government not cut them off and had Meghan and Harry stayed in Canada, the bill could have easily turned into millions.”
The funding for security ended after Harry and Meghan stepped back from most royal duties at the end of March.
Despite seeking refuge in the quiet Island municipality, the royal couple were unable to escape paparazzi who followed them from Europe.
After photos of the duchess walking in a public park with her baby and two dogs was published online, the royal couple issued a warning to paparazzi in Canada.
According to a report by Sky News, Harry and Meghan’s lawyers say these photos were taken without consent by a photographer who was spying on her while hiding in the bushes.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex experienced an increase in the level of media attention after signing a deal to step away from the royal family.
“Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved members of my family,” said the Queen of England in a statement after the announcement.
“I recognise the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life.”
The couple relocated to Los Angeles, California in March 2020.
