A former journalist from CTV and CBC, Richard Madan, was appointed by Wab Kinew’s NDP government to head Manitoba’s trade office in Washington, D.C., where he is earning an annual salary of $387,000. This salary exceeds what Premier Kinew earns ($195,936) and Mayor Scott Gillingham of Winnipeg ($223,338). Madan’s primary role is to enhance Manitoba’s relationships with U.S. officials and industry leaders, safeguard the province’s interests in trade agreements, and promote trade initiatives.
Since assuming this role in June, Madan has engaged with Manitobans, assisted the agricultural sector in adapting to new U.S. country-of-origin labeling regulations, addressed trade challenges like the U.S. inquiry into Canadian mushrooms, and encouraged Manitobans to participate in discussions on the upcoming renegotiation of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade pact.
Opposition Leader Obby Khan has criticized Madan’s appointment, labeling him a “CBC buddy” of Kinew, running a remote trade office from home in Washington. Khan expressed astonishment at Madan’s salary, which accounts for a significant portion of the office’s $800,000 annual budget. Despite Khan’s objections, Kinew defended the decision, emphasizing Madan’s qualifications and connections in Washington.
Madan is also organizing a Capitol Hill event to showcase Manitoba’s supply chains and contributions to Arctic defense. While Khan advocates for hiring more experienced trade representatives, Kinew’s office pointed out that Madan’s salary aligns with what other provinces pay their trade representatives. Madan’s journalistic background includes stints at CBC, CityTV, and CTV, with extensive experience covering Washington politics.
Efforts to obtain information on Madan’s compensation through a freedom-of-information request by CBC News have been unsuccessful, highlighting ongoing transparency challenges.