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NLIS 2
April 26, 2001
(Finance)

 

Minister comments on appearance before the Standing Committee on Finance

Finance Minister Joan Marie Aylward said today that she was pleased to have had the opportunity to explain Newfoundland and Labrador's concerns regarding Bill C-18 to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance.

Bill C-18 is intended to amend the equalization program for one year to lift the existing ceiling. In the province's view, the amendment does not go far enough. 

"I explained to the standing committee that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is fundamentally opposed to any ceiling on equalization entitlements," said Minister Aylward. "Any attempt to restrict normal growth in the equalization program will impact on our ability to provide services such as health care and education."

The minister went on to point out to the standing committee that if the federal government is intent on having a ceiling, Bill C-18 should be amended to ensure it is fair and reasonable and allows for growth within the equalization program.

"This appearance before the committee was a good opportunity to express the views of Newfoundland and Labrador, in concert with the other Atlantic provinces, of the importance of the equalization program in general and specifically the ceiling as amended by Bill C-18," noted the minister. "We will continue to press the federal government to strengthen the equalization program to better benefit the provinces who need it most."

Media contact: Paula Dyke, Communications, (709) 729-0329.

2001 04 26                                         1:45 p.m.


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