Unpaid Debt Sparks Controversy in Ontario School Board
Ontario's Education Minister Paul Calandra has taken a firm stance against a trustee of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board (BHNCDB) over an unpaid debt related to a controversial trip to Italy. In 2024, four trustees, including Mark Watson, embarked on a week-long journey to South Tyrol, Italy, to purchase artwork for two new schools. The trip's expenses totaled $45,000, with an additional $100,000 spent on the artwork itself, drawing significant public and governmental scrutiny over the use of taxpayer funds.
Calandra's office has confirmed that three of the four trustees involved have repaid their shares of the costs, which amounted to over $145,000 in total. However, Mark Watson, who allegedly owes more than $11,000, has neither responded to government attempts to contact him nor settled his portion of the debt. This lack of accountability has fueled calls for action from both the public and officials.
Legislative Action on the Horizon
In response to Watson's inaction, Minister Calandra has threatened to introduce legislation that would enable him to remove the trustee from his elected position. This move comes after repeated requests for repayment were ignored, as reported by various sources. Calandra emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, 'If he does not immediately repay the $11,000-plus he allegedly owes, I will table legislation to fire the trustee.'
The potential legislation marks a significant step, as current laws do not grant the education minister the authority to directly remove a trustee, who is elected by the public. This situation has sparked discussions about governance and oversight within Ontario's school boards, with some local leaders like Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady urging stronger measures such as garnishment to recover the funds.
The controversy has also led to broader reviews of the BHNCDB's spending practices. Earlier in 2025, a final report by reviewer Aaron Shull was submitted on March 14, addressing trustee expenses and accountability policies within the board. The findings have yet to be fully disclosed, but they are expected to influence future policies on expenditure approvals.
Public Outrage and Calls for Reform
The lavish Italy trip has not only drawn ire from government officials but also from the public, with many expressing frustration over the misuse of funds intended for education. Posts found on social media platforms highlight a growing sentiment of distrust toward school board officials, with users questioning how such expenditures were approved in the first place. The additional $60,000 spent on legal advice and public relations to manage the fallout has only intensified public discontent.
Former Education Minister Jill Dunlop had previously described the board's use of public money as 'appalling,' a sentiment echoed by current officials and community members alike. As the situation unfolds, there is a pressing call for reforms to prevent similar incidents, ensuring that taxpayer money is used responsibly and transparently within Ontario's education system.