Ottawa - Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops – Thompson – Cariboo addressed the House of Commons today regarding the second year of Canada’s Economic Action Plan and in support of the Budget tabled on March 4th, 2010.

The following are excerpts of Mrs. McLeod’s speech:

“We are at a key moment in history as we emerge from the global recession where we must maintain our commitment to the nation’s economic recovery.  We cannot stray from our course and risk the gains we have made.  The focus of this year’s budget on jobs and growth will clearly help to address the needs of my riding,” stated McLeod.

“During the month of January I engaged in extensive public consultation throughout the riding in order to provide input into the budget process. The input received recognized the significant challenges the economy is facing and the suggestions were modest, practical and focused. It was with great pleasure last Thursday to see some of these specific concerns addressed effectively in this budget,” said McLeod.

These concerns included extending access to credit for those in the business community, the government’s commitment to social housing, renewing funding for the Community Futures Program, and support for the agriculture and mining industries, just to name a few.

“Budget 2010 recognizes the importance of returning to a balanced budget. Unlike the Liberal government in the 1990s our strategy does not include simply shifting the burden to the provinces and municipalities. We have committed to maintaining transfers for health and social services. In addition, we will not reverse the important gains and tax reductions that individuals and families have enjoyed,” stated McLeod.

Mrs. McLeod also spoke about the three-point plan for returning to a balanced budget once the economy has recovered. This includes ending the temporary stimulus measures as promised, restraining growth in spending through targeted measures and additional restraint through an in-depth review of government’s administrative functions and overhead costs.

“I would like to conclude by saying that I am very proud of our Government’s management of the global economic recession and I am relieved that although we are not comfortable with debt, it is at a manageable level and the envy of many around the world. Budget 2010 represents a strong plan that will lead the way on jobs and growth.  I urge all my colleagues to support this important budget plan,” concluded McLeod.