Donald Oliver flagged for RCMP investigation into Senate expenses

Former Nova Scotia senator Don Oliver denied any wrongdoing Friday after news emerged that thefederal auditor general's report willrecommended RCMP investigate hisexpense claims.

The Auditor General of Canada has reportedly flagged Oliver, Nova ScotiaSenator James Cowan, among21 others,as having ineligible expenses. Sourcestell CBC Oliver's was one of nine cases also referred to the RCMP.

• James Cowan says disputed expense claim process not tainted

"I am very disappointed with the auditor's final report relating to myoffice spending," Oliversaid in a statement Friday.

"The conclusions drawn by the auditor are not based on all the facts. Theclaims of current concern to the auditor, represented legitimate expensesincurred by me while doing Senate Business."

Oliver was appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and served there for 23 years. Heretiredin 2013 when he turned 75.

He said he has co-operated fully with Auditor General Michael Ferguson and his office.

"My expenses were legitimate, lawful and according to the rulesof the Senate regarding Senate business. I remain willing to put forward allof the evidence demonstrating what I know to be factual at the appropriatetime and in the appropriate forum."

Oliver said he will not be granting media interviews about the expense investigation under the advice of his doctor.

"Several months ago, I was diagnosed with a rare cardiac condition. My physicianhas directed me to severely restrict my activities, particularly while I amunder medication related to managing my illness."