Despite being suspended from the Senate three years ago, Liberal Sen. Raymond Lavigne has managed to cost the Canadian taxpayer more than $700,000 since 2007, public accounts reveal.

Lavigne was suspended from the house of sober second thought after being charged with fraud, breach of trust and obstruction of justice.

He is accused of misusing Senate funds for travel and paying a staffer to cut trees on his cottage property. The case is currently before the courts.

James Cowan, the Liberal Senate leader, said that despite Lavigne's suspension, he still holds the financial privileges that come with the job.

"He is not allowed to be in the chamber and he is not allowed to participate in any other legislative duty, but he is still a senator," said Cowan.

Financial records show Lavigne has racked up $135,000 in travel bills and another $180,000 in office expenses since 2007.

Additionally, over the last three fiscal years, Lavigne has collected $388.500 in salary.

Cowan said he doesn't know where the money is going.

"To be straightforward with you, I don't know what he is doing, I don't know where he is doing it and I don't know what his expenses are," he said.

In a statement, Lavigne's office responded by saying: "Senator Raymond Lavigne has been mandated by the Senate of Canada for public affairs from coast to coast."

NDP MP Pat Martin scoffed at the statement.

"I don't know what possible function he could be performing for the Senate of Canada from coast to coast. His job is over there in the Senate and when you are suspended you have no duties," he said,

However, the Conservative senator responsible for spending said that Lavigne is entitled to the funds as long as he is still a member of the chamber.

"He hasn't been found guilty of anything now and he is still a senator until that matter is resolved," Sen. David Tkachuk said.

If found guilty in the case, Lavigne can be expelled from the Senate. He is due back in court Nov. 12.

Meanwhile, the NDP is calling for a motion to cut off Lavigne's travel and office expenses.

With a report from CTV Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife