Mr. Speaker, during our November constituency week I held a very successful pre-budget consultation meeting in my riding of Essex. Interestingly my constituents did not find that a tax cut was desired or needed.
I say “interestingly” because it was reported in today's Globe and Mail that a C. D. Howe Institute report, authored by economist William Robson of the institute and William Searth of McMaster University, recommends that the government hold off on any tax cuts in favour of using budgetary surpluses to aggressively pay down the national debt.
Although my constituents acknowledged our national debt as a problem, and some felt it was a priority, they also have basic concerns for our social programs, pension plans, health care and education. Our 50:50 election promise is what they want.
I urge the finance minister to make careful consideration of the advice being offered through the pre-budget consultation process. I congratulate those Canadians who took the time and effort to participate in the process.