Pierre Poilievre exits Parliament but stays at Stornoway as Conservatives weigh leadership and logistics during a key political transition.
Following his defeat in the Carleton riding, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has closed both his constituency and Parliament Hill offices. Yet, despite no longer being a Member of Parliament — a status he has held for two decades — Poilievre continues to reside at Stornoway, the official residence for Canada’s Leader of the Opposition.
The move comes amid a brief leadership transition. Conservative MP Andrew Scheer has been named interim Leader of the Opposition for the spring session, as only a sitting MP can legally hold the title.
Leadership Role Shifts, But Residence Stays
While Scheer will assume parliamentary leadership duties, he confirmed that Poilievre and his family will remain at Stornoway during this transition.
“Mr. Poilievre hopes to return to the House in a few months. Relocating his family now, only to move them back shortly, would incur unnecessary taxpayer expense,” said Scheer.
He clarified that he has no intention of occupying Stornoway himself.
Party Discretion Governs Residency at Stornoway
Although parliamentary rules require MPs who lose elections to vacate their offices within 21 days, occupancy at Stornoway is not regulated by law. According to the Privy Council Office, it’s up to the Conservative Party to decide who stays at the official residence.
The issue has sparked debate over whether Poilievre, no longer serving as an MP, should remain in the taxpayer-funded home. Scheer addressed the concerns by noting the short-term nature of the transition and emphasizing fiscal prudence.
Cost Considerations Behind the Decision
Past expenses shed light on the rationale. In 2022, it cost the federal government nearly $20,000 to prepare Stornoway for interim leader Candice Bergen’s short stay. Maintaining the property during the 2023–24 fiscal year cost more than $78,000, covering utilities, property management, and grounds upkeep.
While specific figures for moving Poilievre’s family in and out have not been released, the National Capital Commission has been asked to provide estimates.
Next Steps: Return to the House via Alberta Riding
Conservative MP Damien Kurek has offered to vacate his safe Alberta seat of Battle River–Crowfoot to pave the way for Poilievre’s return. However, bureaucratic timelines delay the process. Kurek’s resignation cannot be formalized until 30 days after his election results are published in the Canada Gazette.
Even then, organizing a federal byelection comes at a cost. According to Elections Canada, the average expense for a byelection between 2021 and 2024 was $1.7 million, although costs vary depending on the district and campaign duration.
Conclusion: A Pause, Not a Permanent Exit
While Poilievre has stepped out of Parliament, the Conservative Party appears to be holding his place — and his residence — in trust. With the expectation of a swift byelection and return to the House, the decision reflects both logistical efficiency and political calculation.
