As Canadians, we have a peculiar fiscal habit.

We pride ourselves on thrift in the small things while tolerating – or even enabling – extravagance in the large. It’s the national equivalent of clipping coupons while ignoring a leaking roof.

VUONG: Canadians need to stop being penny wise and pound foolish Back to video

The old adage fits uncomfortably well: we are penny wise and pound foolish.

Look at the recent controversy surrounding Premier Ford and his government’s brief purchase of a $28.9-million Bombardier Challenger jet.

The backlash was immediate and fierce, forcing a rapid reversal. Critics framed it as an indulgence, tone-deaf in a time of economic strain.

Here's a look at the interior of a 2016 Challenger 650. Premier Doug Ford's government spent $28.5 million of taxpayer dollars on the private jet now dubbed the "gravy plane" #onpoli pic.twitter.com/plRes6KBze— Colin D'Mello | Global News (@ColinDMello) April 17, 2026

Here's a look at the interior of a 2016 Challenger 650. Premier Doug Ford's government spent $28.5 million of taxpayer dollars on the private jet now dubbed the "gravy plane" #onpoli pic.twitter.com/plRes6KBze

Reaction misses a deeper point

But that reaction misses a deeper point. A dedicated government aircraft, when used properly, can be justified. In a province as large and economically critical as Ontario, the premier’s time is........

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