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Hard facts and figures - Perry Guilbault

Prime Minister Paul Martin and Finance Minister Ralph Goodale are very pleased that they were able to create a budget surplus of $12.1 billion. But here is some truth that might shed a bit of light of the surplus funds.

Prime Minister Paul Martin and Finance Minister Ralph Goodale are very pleased that they were able to create a budget surplus of $12.1 billion.

But here is some truth that might shed a bit of light of the surplus funds. Over that last five years, the taxpayer has paid $55.4 billion more in taxes. Therefore, is the $12.1 billion really a surplus or just creative accounting?

Canadians should note that during the same period, our government expenditures has increased by $71.9 billion, much of which has gone into salaries, wages, benefits, pensions and travel.

Now, is this the same government that says they are putting their best foot forward for Canadians? Think hard about these figures before you vote.

Perry Guilbault
New Sudbury