More details emerge on pay of Manitoba trade representative in Washington D.C. - Winnipeg | Globalnews.ca

The Manitoba government is defending its trade representative in Washington, D.C. after more details have emerged about how much taxpayers are paying the consultant. Former television reporter Richard Madan was hired last June to help promote Manitoba’s interests in the U.S. and fight tariffs and other trade measures imposed by the U.S. administration. Get breaking National news Get breaking Canada news delivered to your inbox as it happens so you won't miss a trending story. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Get Started By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. The Manitoba government said in October that Madan would collect an annual salary worth $387,000 in Canadian funds, as part of an overall $800,000 budget for the Washington office the fiscal year.Madan’s contract, obtained by the CBC through a freedom of information request, shows Madan’s consulting company is being paid US$350,000, worth about $480,000 in Canadian funds. More on Politics More videos Ontario records consecutive months of improving housing starts Ontario’s solicitor general breaks silence on police corruption investigation Ford accused of limiting transparency law because of cellphone defeat in court Ottawa puts $200M into space launch pad in Nova Scotia Canada agrees to collaborate with Nordic countries on defence, trade US-Iran war: Trump demands other countries help protect Strait of Hormuz Metro Vancouver reform options Environment minister explains conservation authorities amalgamation  The contract says the amount includes expenses linked to local travel and parking and provides for up to US$37,000 more each year for expenses related to hospitality, diplomacy and other items. Story continues below advertisement The Opposition Progressive Conservatives say there has been no evidence that Madan has helped secure any trade deals, but Finance Minister Adrien Sala says Madan has been meeting with stakeholders and working to protect Manitoba jobs.