Canadian taxpayers will soon be off the hook when it comes to providing security for the the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Public Safety Canada says the RCMP has been providing security for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan since November when the couple moved to B.C. part-time, but plans to stop in coming weeks.
A statement from Minister Bill Blair’s office says Harry and Meghan’s part-time move to Canada presented “a unique and unprecedented set of circumstances.” It adds the RCMP has been helping the U.K.’s Metropolitan Police provide security for the Sussexes intermittently since their arrival.
The statement says Canada is obligated to provide Harry and Meghan security “as needed” because they are Internationally Protected Persons, and that the assistance will stop “in keeping with their change in status.”
After the birth of their son, Archie, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said they wanted to embrace a more independent life. The couple has announced they will walk away from most royal duties starting Mar. 31 as they give up public funding.
The Sussexes’ website says they will continue to require security, but cannot provide more details for “safety reasons.” The statement from Blair’s office doesn’t say who will take over that responsibility, which could cost up to $30-million a year.