Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Minister of Finance for presenting this House and this nation once again with a sound and responsible federal budget.
Coming from a large, predominately rural constituency, the budget measures that will help rural Canada are of particular interest to me, for example the expansion of the community access program by about $30 million, the $50 million equity infusion into the BDC which will lever up to $250 million in new loans for tourism, and the Farm Credit Corporation will be provided with an additional $50 million.
Rural areas will also benefit from the funds provided in this budget through the extension of the infrastructure program, youth employment initiatives, small business enhancements and innovation.
The minister recognizes that strength in rural Canada is vital to our national well-being.