In an eye-opening report from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF), it has come to light that Global Affairs Canada has been on a real estate spending spree, pouring hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars into properties across the globe over the past decade.

The revelations stem from an Access to Information request sparked by the controversy surrounding Global Affairs' recent purchase of a staggering $9 million condominium in New York City, which was made without the necessary Treasury Board approval. This prompted Federal Director Franco Terrazzano to investigate further, leading to some startling discoveries.

What they uncovered was nothing short of astonishing. Global Affairs Canada reportedly owns over 400 properties in more than 70 countries and has spent an eye-watering $186 million on various real estate investments in the last ten years. Among these expenditures, the report highlights notable purchases including $12.5 million for vacant land in Senegal and a $10.2 million chancery building in Ukraine. Perhaps most shocking are the three properties in Kabul, Afghanistan, which amount to $41 million and have since been abandoned following the Taliban’s takeover.

Terrazzano has not held back in criticizing what he describes as a "bloated" real estate portfolio funded by taxpayers. He argues that if Canadians are not receiving tangible value from these investments, it might be high time for the federal government to consider selling off these properties.

As the debate heats up over government spending and accountability, many Canadians are left wondering: how many more hidden expenditures are lurking in the shadows? Should the government take a closer look at its overseas investments? Only time will tell as taxpayers demand transparency and fiscal responsibility in their government's dealings.