The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, and Prince Harry have been met with a snub from Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The couple had requested that the Canadian government cover the costs of their lavish accommodation at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, a five-star hotel in Vancouver, during their attendance at the upcoming Invictus Games.
However, Trudeau has firmly declined their request, leading to offense and anger from both the government and the Canadian people.
Throughout their stay in Canada in 2019 and 2020, Meghan and Harry received support and hospitality from the Canadian people, who also covered their security costs until March 2020.
As patrons of the Invictus Games Foundation, the couple is set to return to Canada next month to attend the event.
Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is a sporting competition for wounded, injured, and sick service personnel and veterans.
After being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will take place in Vancouver from February 14 to February 16, with 20 participating nations and 500 competitors.
While expressing their excitement and support for the athletes, sources reveal that Meghan and Harry have made outrageous demands for their accommodation in Vancouver.
They specifically requested to stay at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, known for its luxury and high prices.
The hotel offers elegant suites with stunning views, a rooftop pool, a spa, and a fine dining restaurant.
The rates for the suites range from $1,000 to $2,500 per night, depending on the season and availability.
The couple’s request was for the Chairman Suite, the largest and most extravagant suite in the hotel.
It features various amenities such as a living room, dining room, kitchen, media room, library, powder room, master bedroom, master bathroom, walk-in closet, private terrace, and a personal elevator.
Additionally, Meghan and Harry asked for numerous additional services, including a private chef, personal trainer, massage therapist, yoga instructor, nanny, stylist, makeup artist, hairdresser, and a security team.
Expecting the Canadian government to cover the costs of their hotel stay, travel, and security expenses, the couple contacted Prime Minister Trudeau’s office to arrange their booking.
However, Trudeau, who has been under scrutiny for his handling of the pandemic, economy, and vaccine rollout, refused to comply with their demands.
He informed them that they would have to pay for their own accommodation, travel, and security.
Trudeau justified his decision by stating that he could not justify spending taxpayers’ money on an extravagant and unnecessary hotel stay, especially during a time of crisis and hardship for many Canadians.
He also emphasized that the couple would be treated like any other guest or dignitary attending the Invictus Games, without receiving any special treatment or privileges.
Trudeau acknowledged their contributions to the event but stressed the importance of respecting Canada’s sovereignty and independence, as the couple is no longer active members of the royal family.
Trudeau’s refusal to meet the couple’s demands has ignited a fierce debate among the public and media.
Some commend Trudeau for standing up to Meghan and Harry, viewing his actions as defending Canada’s interests and values.
On the other hand, critics argue that Trudeau’s refusal was rude and disrespectful, causing offense to the royal family and the monarchy.
The controversy surrounding this issue is likely to strain the relationship between the couple and the Canadian government, as well as the Canadian people, who have expressed disappointment with their departure and behavior.
The question remains: will Meghan and Harry apologize or compromise with the Canadian government?
And will the Canadian government ever forgive or welcome the couple?
Only time will tell if trust and respect can be rebuilt between the couple and the Canadian people.