Trudeau proposes way forward on 24 Sussex problem during final days in power

As Prime Minister Justin Trudeau prepares to step down from office, he is making one final effort to address the long-standing issue of 24 Sussex Drive, the official residence of Canada’s prime minister that has been vacant for several years. Trudeau has tasked Public Services and Procurement Minister Jean-Yves Duclos with developing a proposal for a new official residence by January 2026.

In a letter to Duclos, Trudeau has requested the formation of an advisory committee to assess the location, cost, functionality, and security requirements of the new residence. The committee would include prominent Canadians, such as former prime ministers and clerks of the Privy Council, to ensure a comprehensive and long-term solution.

The current residence, 24 Sussex Drive, has been closed since 2015 due to disrepair and security concerns. Options for a new residence include a new or renovated complex on the existing property, a move to a more secure location in Rockcliffe Park, or an upgrade to Rideau Cottage, the prime minister’s unofficial residence since 2015.

However, the cost of any of these options is expected to be significant, with estimates ranging from tens of millions to over $100 million. This financial burden has been a major obstacle to previous attempts to address the issue.

Trudeau’s proposal for an advisory committee is seen as a way to navigate these challenges, especially with the involvement of former prime ministers from different political parties. The timing of the proposal also ensures that Trudeau will not directly benefit from any decisions made by the committee.

Security is a key consideration in the search for a new residence, as the current grounds at 24 Sussex are deemed inadequate to meet modern requirements. Trudeau himself has faced security threats during his time in office, including an incident in 2021 where a man crashed his truck into the gates of Rideau Hall.

As Trudeau prepares to leave office, the future of 24 Sussex Drive remains uncertain. It will ultimately be up to his successor, whether it be Mark Carney or another leader, to decide whether to move forward with a new official residence that meets the needs of Canada’s prime minister.