This government understands that many Canadians are worried about their jobs, savings and pensions. Canadians are expecting stable leadership that will protect our economy for the future and do whatever it takes to support workers and businesses during these difficult times.

At the same time, Canadians recognize that this crisis originated outside of our borders. Nevertheless, this government has taken various measures since we were elected in 2006 to insulate ourselves against the worst effects of just such a crisis.

We significantly paid down the federal debt providing room to run a deliberate short-term deficit without putting our children’s future at risk. We dramatically reduced corporate, personal and sales taxes, helping Canadian businesses compete internationally while leaving more spending money in the pockets of Canadians. We are helping seniors who rely on RRIF income and taking steps to protect pensions. We are providing conditional financial support to the auto sector proportional to what was announced by the Americans. While we are facing an economic downturn, as is most of the world, independent economic experts worldwide agree that Canada is in the best fiscal position out of all the G7 nations.

On January 27, 2009, Canadians will be presented with a budget designed to guide our country through these uncertain times. We will be accelerating infrastructure investments – and have asked our provincial partners to identify projects that can create jobs and get shovels in the ground right away. We will act to help workers and communities left at risk by the recession. We will ensure that individuals and businesses have access to the credit they need.

We are also prepared to run a deliberate, substantial short-term budget deficit as part of our recovery plan. We will avoid any long-term structural deficit that would put our future at risk.

I invite all the constituents of SDSG to make their suggestions for the upcoming budget at www.fin.gc.ca, in the section called “Budget 2009 Consultations”, as soon as possible. The more that we work together to solve this financial crisis, the more success Canada will have.

In the days ahead, I look forward to speaking with many of you about the concerns you have about the challenges facing our community and our country. As always, you can contact me at 1-888-805-2513 or send me an e-mail at info@guylauzon.ca

Guy Lauzon, MP
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry