Mr. Speaker, as we approach budget day I would like to convey the concerns of the residents of Hamilton Mountain. While my constituents appreciate that this year's budget must be a tough one, they feel that it should not be at the expense of the most vulnerable members of our society.
Eliminating the deficit must not be done on the backs of seniors on fixed incomes, the unemployed and lower income Canadians. It is time that all Canadians paid their share.
On behalf of my constituents I would ask the Minister of Finance to close tax loopholes before cutting social programs. The residents of my riding are very aware of the pressing need to reduce and eventually eliminate the deficit. There must be fairness in accomplishing this goal. If all Canadians share fairly the burden of deficit reduction, I am sure there will be great support for our efforts to put the country's finances in order.