At the House of Commons today, Kristian Firth, GC Strategies partner, faced intense questioning from members of parliament over his company’s involvement in the development of the ArriveCan app. The session marked a rare public admonishment as MPs called Firth to the bar of the House for an official rebuke, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The ArriveCan app, initially budgeted at $80,000, saw its costs escalate to at least $60 million, as reported by the Auditor General. MPs have been probing into the details of this substantial increase and GC Strategies’ role in the project. Despite multiple committee hearings and an Auditor General’s report, unanswered questions prompted MPs to seek further information directly from GC Strategies.
The session almost didn’t take place, with concerns raised about Firth’s medical condition. However, after clarifications were provided, the questioning proceeded. MPs delved into various aspects of the ArriveCan project, seeking clarity on GC Strategies’ role, contract details, and the company’s interactions with government officials.
During the session, Firth faced questions about whether the federal government had requested repayment for funds awarded through the ArriveCan project. He denied any such request. Additionally, concerns were raised about potential improper lobbying practices leading to GC Strategies securing the contract. Firth admitted to taking government employees out for dinners and coffees but maintained that these interactions were within acceptable parameters.
Firth’s responses appeared more conciliatory than previous engagements with MPs. He acknowledged his past shortcomings, stating, “I know I was wrong. I know I’ve been admonished. That’s why I’m here today.” He expressed willingness to provide more comprehensive answers than in previous interactions with parliamentary committees.
Parallel to the parliamentary proceedings, an RCMP investigation into both the ArriveCan project and another contracting controversy involving GC Strategies is ongoing. Recent reports indicated that Firth’s property was raided by the RCMP, though it was clarified that this was a search warrant, not an arrest warrant, related to the Botler allegations.
Firth confirmed awareness of the RCMP’s actions, stating he was not present during the search and was unsure about the specifics of what was seized. The RCMP has indicated that while there are connections between the two investigations, they are treating them as separate but expanding on the original case.