Federal managers spent eight months organizing a $70,000 Hollywood party at taxpayer expense, hiring publicists for “red carpet management” and planning a catered reception for more than 400 guests, records show. Blacklock's Reporter says the event was cancelled only after news of the spending became public.Internal memos obtained through Access To Information reveal that Telefilm Canada and the Canadian Consulate General in Los Angeles aimed to host a February 27 party ahead of Oscar week to “recognize and celebrate Canadian and indigenous talent in the screen industry and stimulate investment.”.Publicists were contracted to handle red carpet setup and on-site management, book a photographer, and “secure top tier media outlets.”Additional expenses included valet parking and catering for 407 invitees, including federal employees and VIPs.Planning for the party began in June 2024. The event was called off on January 17 after the $70,000 budget was revealed by Blacklock’s Reporter.“In light of the devastating impact of Los Angeles wildfires and out of respect for the current situation we will not be holding this event,” Telefilm spokesperson Joyce Richards said at the time..The wildfires killed 30 people and burned 38,000 acres, with insured losses topping US$28 billion.Telefilm, which spent $155.3 million last year, received an extra $100 million in federal funding over two years to support Canadian storytelling.The Department of Canadian Heritage, which oversees Telefilm’s budget, declined to comment on the aborted party.By contrast, the Canadian Consulate in Los Angeles spent just $12,460 in 2015 to host two events: a Canada Day celebration and a reception for then-Governor General David Johnston.That event, though more modest in cost, featured a gourmet menu with items like shitake-crusted filet of beef, teriyaki beef on bamboo, and chocolate ganache baby cakes.
