Good evening: I am here tonight to announce our new Tax Fairness Plan for Canadians. It’s a plan designed to level the playing field between income trusts and corporations. The measures I am bringing forward today are necessary to restore balance and fairness to Canada’s Tax System. They are necessary to ensure our economy continues to grow and prosper. They are necessary to bring Canada in line with other jurisdictions throughout the world. Our plan is the result of months of careful consideration and evaluation. Our actions are clear, decisive and in the best interest of all Canadians. Despite the provisions in Budget 2006 to reduce the level of taxation on corporate dividends, the landscape has changed dramatically in the short time I have been Minister of Finance. This year alone there has been almost $70 billion in new trust announcements. We have seen a growing trend towards corporate tax avoidance. Top Canadian corporations, operating within the current rules, have announced their intention to convert to income trusts. They feel compelled to seek more favourable tax treatment by capitalizing on an available tax rule. This trend has now moved into the core of our industrial and knowledge-based economy. It is a trend that has caused me growing concern. If corporations don’t pay their share of taxes, this tax burden will shift onto the shoulders of hardworking individuals and families. This is simply not fair. This trend towards income trusts is also creating an economic distortion that is threatening Canada’s long-term economic growth. It is limiting the ability of Canadian capital-intensive corporations to invest, to grow and compete in this highly competitive global economy. If we continue down this road the implications for Canadians are significant. We will find ourselves with a tax system that is less fair and an economy that is less productive and competitive. Left unchecked such corporate decisions would result in billions of dollars in less revenue for the federal government to invest in the priorities of Canadians, including more personal income tax relief. These decisions would also mean less revenue for the provinces and territories, several of which have made representations to me on this matter. Clearly, Canada is out of step in its treatment of income trusts. The structure being used in this country was shut down in the United States and Australia. This situation is not right and it is not fair. It is the responsibility of the Government of Canada to set our nation’s tax policy, not corporate tax planners. In response, I am putting forward our government’s Tax Fairness Plan: First of all, the government is proposing to apply a Distribution Tax on distributions from publicly traded income trusts. This will level the playing field between trusts and corporations. For income trusts that begin trading after today, these measures will apply beginning with their 2007 taxation year. For existing income trusts the government is proposing to provide a four-year transition period. They will not be subject to the new measures until their 2011 taxation year. Secondly, as part of our Tax Fairness Plan we will be reducing the general corporate income tax rate one-half percentage point as of January 1, 2011. As a result of this measure, there will not be more government revenue generated from the corporate sector. Thirdly, we are increasing the Age Credit Amount by $ 1,000 from $4,066 to $5,066 effective January 1, 2006. This measure will provide tax relief for low and middle-income seniors. Finally, we are introducing a major positive change in tax policy for pensioners. We will permit income splitting for pensioners beginning in 2007. This will significantly enhance the incentives to save and invest for family retirement security. We recognize that pensioners and seniors have made important investments over the years and may be receiving benefits from the current income trust structure. These two measures will allow them to retain more of their income in their retirement years. This is a significant step forward in the strengthening of our social security system for pensioners and seniors. These measures will enhance the seniors’ initiative we introduced in Budget 2006. At that time we doubled the amount of eligible pension income that can be claimed under the pension income credit – from $1,000 dollars to $2,000 starting in the 2006 tax year. Our government firmly believes tax relief is one of the keys to ensuring the Canadian economy remains strong and competitive. I will have more to say about our competitiveness when I present the government’s Fall Economic Statement and release our Economic Plan for Canada in the next few weeks. These measures represent a major tax reduction. Our Tax Fairness Plan will deliver over a billion dollars of new tax relief annually for Canadians. The initiatives I am announcing today clearly build on our tax relief package outlined in Budget 2006. We delivered significant tax relief for Canadians with 29 tax cuts amounting to $20 billion in tax relief over the next two years. But more needs to be done. Families and businesses still pay too much tax in this country, and our government will continue to reduce the tax burden on Canadians. At the same time, we must ensure that no one gains an unfair tax advantage at the expense of others. It’s a responsibility we cannot and will not abdicate. Each and every day Canadians across the country get up and go to work, pay their taxes and set aside a few dollars for retirement. They trust that their government is watching out for them and upholding the values that make our country great. The values that define us as Canadians, like fairness. The Tax Fairness Plan I am announcing today will uphold the value of fairness. It will level the playing field between income trusts and corporations; It will ensure that taxes are not unfairly shifted onto the shoulders of Canadian families and taxpayers; It will strengthen Canada’s social security system for pensioners and seniors; It will help corporations make choices that are consistent with economic growth and competitiveness; and It will bring Canada’s approach to income trusts back in-line with other jurisdictions. Canada’s New Government understands that good government and good policy are about being focused, determined and decisive. Our Tax Fairness Plan is not only the right thing to do, it is in the best interest of all Canadians from coast to coast to coast. Thank you.

October 22, 2006 Ottawa, Ontario Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that by-elections will be held on Monday, November 27, 2006 in the riding of London North Centre (Ontario) and the riding of Repentigny (Quebec).

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Canada’s New Government will introduce legislation to provide tougher sentences and more effective management of individuals convicted of sexual or violent offences in Canada. “We are going to impose stricter conditions on repeat offenders to keep such criminals from offending again and again,” the Prime Minister said. “We will make it easier to seek dangerous offender designations so that they will serve indeterminate sentences.” The Prime Minister noted that the proposed legislation will put the onus on offenders convicted of a third violent or sexual offence to prove that they should not be declared dangerous offenders. Those who fail to do so will be subject to an indeterminate jail sentence, with no eligibility for parole for seven years. As well, the legislation would also increase the maximum duration of peace bonds from 12 to 24 months, which will allow additional restrictions and conditions to be placed on the actions of released criminals. “Our justice system generously gives second and third chances,” the Prime Minister added. “But at some point, governments must draw the line and this bill will do just that.” Since assuming office earlier this year, Canada’s New Government has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at tackling crime and protecting the safety and security of Canadians. These include legislation to end conditional sentences for serious offences, to implement mandatory minimum sentences for crimes involving guns, to raise the age of consent for sexual activity from 14 to 16 years and to crack down on street racing.

In an unprecedented appearance today before a Senate Committee today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper urged Senators to join Canada's New Government in bringing long overdue reform to their institution. "The Government is not looking for another report. We are seeking action. Action that responds to the commitments we made to Canadians during the recent federal election." said the Prime Minister. "The Senate is changing, and we will be the ones to make it happen.” The Government introduced Bill S-4, An Act to amend the Constitution Act, 1867 (Senate Tenure) in the Senate on May 30, 2006. It proposes to limit senate terms to eight years for new Senators. Prime Minister Harper urged Senators to pass S-4. The Prime Minister also informed Senators that the Government will introduce a bill this autumn to create a process to choose elected Senators. “This bill will further demonstrate how seriously the Government takes the issue of Senate reform,” said the Prime Minister. “And to Canadians, it will further signal that the Senate is changing.”

Foreign Affairs Minister and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Peter MacKay is pleased to announce the official launch of the 2006/2007 edition of Bon Voyage, But.... Published by the Consular Affairs Bureau of Foreign Affairs Canada, this smart-travel guide is now available to all Canadians. The official launch of Bon Voyage, But… is an occasion for the department to invite the media to work with it to communicate its message on safe travel to Canadians, and to alert them to the risks of travelling during the hurricane season. This season extends from June 1 to November 30 in coastal regions of the southern United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. “Millions of Canadians go abroad every year. Our goal is to help maximize the success of their journeys and minimize their problems while abroad,” said Minister MacKay. “Our job is not only to assist Canadians when problems occur, but also to take a preventive approach to encourage safe and hassle-free travel. That’s what Bon Voyage, But… is all about.” The guide, developed to help Canadians plan before venturing abroad, includes essential travel advice and information on consular services offered by Canadian government offices worldwide. FAC has an Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa and more than 270 offices around the world with consular officials ready to assist Canadians travelling, working or living abroad. Bon Voyage, But… is available free of charge in both print and online formats at http://www.voyage.gc.ca http://www.voyage.gc.ca . A video webcast of the official launch is also available at the same site.

Vancouver, B.C. Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that the government will introduce legislation this spring to crack down on street racing. “Let’s be clear, street racing isn’t about kids having fun. It's reckless, dangerous, and all too often it kills." said the Prime Minister. “That is why our government will introduce legislation to tackle this serious problem head on.” The effect of the legislation will be twofold. First, the legislation will create a new Criminal Code offence for street racing, one which will result in stiffer sentences for street racers. Second, the legislation will introduce driving prohibitions for those who are convicted. There have already been a number of street racing deaths this year. In January, a Toronto cab driver was killed instantly when his car was hit by an alleged street racer. Less than a week later, four young men were killed as a result of a street racing accident in Vancouver. Today’s announcement marks the latest step in the government’s effort to crack down on crime. Earlier this month, Justice Minister Vic Toews introduced legislation to put an end to condition sentences for serious offences and establish mandatory minimum sentences for gun crimes. The Prime Minister pledged to continue moving forward on the government’s agenda of making Canadian communities safer.

February 6, 2006 Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the appointment of a new Ministry designed to deliver the change mandated by Canadians on January 23rd. “My smaller Cabinet and more streamlined Cabinet structure are designed for work—not for show,” said Prime Minister Harper. “The team is talented and balanced, reflecting our national diversity. The 26 Ministers are equal members of the team, ensuring equal voices from all regions of Canada. The structure is designed to promote accountable, efficient and effective government—more focus and purpose; less process and cost.” In announcing the new Cabinet, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s intention to focus on five key priorities: Cleaning up government by enacting and enforcing the Federal Accountability Act; Lowering taxes for working Canadians, starting with a reduction to the Goods and Services Tax; Protecting Canadian families and communities by strengthening the justice system; Supporting the child care choices of parents; and Delivering health care Canadians need, when they need it, by establishing a patient wait times guarantee with the provinces. “Our mission is clear,” said the Prime Minister. “We will restore faith and trust in our public institutions as we keep Canada strong and united.”

As Prime minister, I would like to personally thank and congratulate all Canadians who voted on Monday. Your participation in the electoral process is essential in fostering a strong democracy for our country. I am proud to see that Canada remains a healthy democracy, a great model for all countries around the world. On January 23rd, Canadians expressed their choice and we wish the best to Prime Minister-designate Stephen Harper and his team. I would like to reassure Canadians that my team and I will work together to facilitate the transition that will lead to the installation of a new government. It has been an honour for me to be your prime minister and to represent Canada on the international scene. Canada is a great nation and its greatest days lie ahead.

Toronto, Ontario- Prime Minister Paul Martin today outlined a package of measures to crack down on violent gun crimes and gang violence in Canada and help those communities at risk, including proposed amendments to the Criminal Code, actions to cut down on the number of guns on Canada’s streets and social investments aimed at reducing crime at its source. "Violent gun crime and gangsterism is not something we can accept nor something any community in Canada should be asked to endure," said Prime Minister Paul Martin. "The Government’s approach recognizes the complexity of these issues. Shortly, the Minister of Justice will be announcing changes to the Criminal Code to increase mandatory minimum sentences for certain firearms-related offences. In addition, the Government, in consultation with the provinces, will report back on every possible option to address the supply of illegal weapons and ammunition." The Government of Canada's plan is rooted in three areas: - Tougher Sentences – In addition to increasing the mandatory minimums, the Minister of Justice is currently working with his provincial colleagues to ensure that punishments for key gun crimes continue to meet the challenges facing our communities all across Canada. - Combating Gang Violence - The Government of Canada is creating a $50 million Gun Violence and Gang Prevention Fund, a fourth pillar to the National Crime Prevention Strategy, that will provide new program funding, over the next five years, to organizations and governments working to reduce gun violence and gang activity. The new fund will support community-based prevention and intervention projects targeting guns and gangs in Canada's urban centers. Funding will be provided for a broad range of projects, including initiatives that prevent youth from entering gangs and assist them in exiting gangs. - Assisting Communities at Risk - The Government of Canada is also providing additional funding for community-based youth justice projects in Toronto through a $1 million topping up of the City and Community Partnership component of the Youth Justice Renewal Fund. Additionally, the Government announced three programs, funded at $2.6 million, currently being administered through our Youth Employment Strategy. Two are currently underway; one of these is new, a $1.9 million program being administered by the City of Toronto. These are part of $122 million in funding which has already been dedicated in Youth Employment Strategy programming to help youth at-risk across the country. These programs assist multi-barriered Toronto youth with acquiring skills, participating in community service activities and becoming contributing members of their communities. Speaking with David Miller, Mayor of Toronto, the Prime Minister focused on the need to work in partnership with other levels of government, community leadership and law enforcement agencies to target at risk youth and lend support to the communities where they live. “Under our plan, we will enhance existing partnerships with provinces and municipalities to find innovative solutions to gun and gang problems occurring across Canada,” said Prime Minister Martin. “I firmly believe that working as partners and by lending support to the communities at risk, we can make a difference in the lives of youth across the country and make our communities a safer place to live.” The initiatives announced today build on existing Government of Canada measures designed to ensure safe communities across Canada, including the recently-tabled bill on conditional sentencing as well as on-going funding under programs such as the National Crime Prevention Strategy.

I am delighted to be here in beautiful Mar del Plata at the invitation of our friend President Nestor Kirchner. Nearly a decade ago our countries gathered in Miami to embrace a co-operative agenda for the Americas. In Quebec City, a little less than five years ago, we came together again and reached a ground-breaking consensus about democracy. In Quebec City we agreed that only a democratic government – committed to equality, transparency, market principles and honest dealing – only a government like this, accountable to all of its people, could provide our citizens with the tools to foster long-term economic growth while distributing the benefits fairly. Democracy is a work in progress. And we must work to ensure that all segments of our population can participate in the economic benefits that good governance can bring. We have made significant progress in achieving greater gender equality. But the goal of advancing the participation of women in every segment and every facet of civil society must be consciously and continually pursued. We recognize the unacceptable gap that persists between the very poor and the very rich. We must, all of us, developed and developing nations alike, ensure our public policy is responsive to the need to share our prosperity equitably. In Canada, as in many countries, those hardest hit by poverty are our indigenous peoples, and we must do far more to address the reality of this deeply human challenge. This is why I applaud the results of the second Indigenous Peoples Summit here in Argentina, for they provide a rich menu of approaches to redress the poverty gap and integrate our indigenous peoples into the economic mainstream. Further, we, as leaders, have the responsibility to encourage and foster the growing relationship among indigenous peoples throughout the Americas. And as important as the separate summits are, I believe we need to foster an ongoing connection between the two. But perfecting democracy does not complete our task. We also need to strengthen our economies from within. That means not only investing in technology and education, but also in the rule of law. There is a lot to do. But the work is essential, because the world within and beyond our borders is changing. Nations such as China and India have grown to become industrial powerhouses in the historical equivalent of a snap of the fingers. Their rates of growth have far outstripped our performance in the Americas for some time. We, at this summit, should embrace the challenge of generating the kind of growth that our competitors in other regions are showing – to the benefit of our producers and consumers. The steps we are taking sub-regionally through Free Trade pacts in our various neighbourhoods are improving our performance. But Free Trade on a hemispheric basis would enable us to leverage our collective size to compete globally and thereby generate jobs at home. A Free Trade Agreement of the Americas is not about making the hemisphere safe for capitalists. It is about providing opportunities for our workers, and better goods and services for our consumers, from the bottom rung of the income ladder to the top. This is not a geopolitical agenda. It’s a people’s agenda. A democratic country with a stake in the global economy can grow; it can invest its wealth in essential social programs such as health and education, as well as in technology and innovation – unlocking the potential of its own people. Freer and fairer trade will lift more human beings out of poverty than all of the assistance programs in the world combined. We should make a commitment here to complete our negotiations for a Free Trade Area of the Americas: an agreement that would complement, not compete with, our ambitions for a successful completion of the Doha Round. Fundamentally, we have to co-operate better and more urgently in the Americas. More and more, our mutual security, health and the quality of our environment depend on our willingness to work together. This is why the OAS is playing an important role in the supervision of free elections in Haiti, an effort distinguished by Brazil’s leadership of the UN Stabilization Mission, as well as important contributions from many other countries in the hemisphere. The need to co-operate more urgently is why representatives from many of our nations gathered last week in Ottawa, where Ministers of Health and senior officials from more than 30 countries met with technical experts and the leadership of multilateral organizations, to formulate a collective response to the threat of a global pandemic. None of us is immune to the threat of a virus derived from Avian Flu any more than we are from the threat of AIDS. We must work collectively to respond to this threat. Indeed, the Pan American Health Organisation can and must play a key role in this effort. We have to work together. At the end of this month, the UN Conference on Climate Change will be held in Montreal, where representatives from our countries will gather to address an issue of critical importance to all of us. Working together, there, too, I hope, we can provide the kind of leadership urgently required to address global warming. Global warming is a fact. If the developed world is the primary cause of this, the fact is we all suffer together, and we’ve all got to be part of the solution. Economic and social inequality, Avian Flu, global warming, the challenges to democracy itself; we didn’t choose any of these, but they are real, and within our countries, and among them, the effort to deal with these challenges will require us to co-operate on a scale that is frankly unprecedented. But we have come a long way since Miami. We are learning every day that we can accomplish more together than we can alone. Here, in Mar del Plata, we have an historic opportunity to advance our vision for the Americas; to reaffirm our support for the OAS; and to fashion in our hemisphere an example for the world of what can be achieved when countries set aside their differences and focus on the common aspirations of all our people. This is the long-term goal. We can get there if we work together. Thank you.

October 28, 2005

Montreal, Quebec- Prime Minister Paul Martin and Quebec Premier Jean Charest, along with federal Social Development Minister Ken Dryden, Quebec’s Minister of Families, Seniors and the Status of Women Carole Théberge, President of the Privy Council and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Lucienne Robillard, and Quebec’s Minister for Canadian Intergovernmental Affairs Benoît Pelletier, announced today an historic agreement concerning the transfer of $1.125 billion over five years under the federal government’s Early Learning and Child Care Initiative. This is the first funding agreement the Government of Canada has signed under the Early Learning and Child Care Initiative. “The best way for a forward-looking society to reach its goals is to help its youngest citizens,” said Prime Minister Martin. “It is essential, in building a 21st century society, that we enhance and expand early learning and child care programs across Canada, with Quebec serving as an inspiration. This agreement also marks a further step in relations between the governments of Quebec and Canada. It shows that both governments can reach agreement on questions of primary importance for our citizens.” Mr. Charest said, “The Government of Quebec is investing $1.5 billion annually in educational child care. Families in Quebec currently enjoy quality services that meet their needs. This type of investment illustrates our desire to place the welfare of Quebec families at the very centre of our priorities and actions. As a result, the governments of Canada and Quebec have agreed that Quebec will receive, unconditionally, its equal share of funds from the federal initiative.” This announcement follows the Government of Canada’s February 2005 budget commitment to invest $5 billion over five years to enhance and expand high-quality developmental early learning and child care in collaboration with provinces and territories. “Today’s announcement reflects Quebec’s leadership on early learning and child care,” said Minister Dryden. “Quebec has shown us how good and important an ambitious system of early learning and child care can be. And because of this, it is entirely appropriate that Quebec be the first jurisdiction to sign a final funding agreement with the Government of Canada.” Quebec places a very high priority on early learning and child care and has invested significant amounts, putting in place a system that can serve as a model for the rest of Canada. This initiative will, in particular, help Quebec reach its goals for early learning and child care, recognizing the leadership of Quebec in this area. Quebec’s Minister of Families, Seniors and the Status of Women, Carole Théberge, said, “We are pleased that the federal government recognizes that Quebec is a leader in child care. With the bill that I tabled Tuesday before the National Assembly on early learning and child care, we intend to further strengthen child care services with a view to improving accessibility and flexibility, and thereby continue to improve the quality of those services. It will give us great pleasure to share the expertise we have acquired over the past few years with our colleagues of other provinces,” she added. “This agreement demonstrates the flexibility that characterizes a federation such as ours and allows us to conclude agreements that can adapt to the different situations, realities and needs of a province’s population,” said the Honourable Lucienne Robillard, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and President of the Queen’s Privy Council. “This agreement, besides being of an asymmetrical nature, respects the exclusive skills of Quebec and the positions expressed in this matter. We have always believed that it was possible to agree on a formula that would recognize the work already carried out by Quebec and that would therefore allow us to benefit from funding with no strings attached,” said Minister Pelletier. Through this agreement, funds will be forwarded to Quebec to support these goals on early learning and child care and the well-being of families. The governments of Canada and Quebec will collaborate with other provinces and territories on best practices on early learning and child care that will improve early learning and child care programming as much as possible. The Government of Canada recently signed similar Early Learning and Child Care Agreements in Principle with Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Alberta, and British Columbia. It is anticipated that similar agreements with the remaining provinces and territories will be signed in the weeks and months ahead. The Agreement is accessible at the following sites: http://www.sdc.gc.ca/en/cs/comm/sd/news/agreements_principle/index.shtml http://www.premier.gouv.qc.ca

September 29, 2005

Vancouver, British Columbia- Prime Minister Paul Martin and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell, along with Social Development Minister Ken Dryden and Stan Hagen, British Columbia’s Minister of Children and Family Development, announced today an historic Agreement in Principle that further supports the development of quality early learning and child care (ELCC) for young children and their families in British Columbia. “The surest measure of a forward-looking society is the effort it makes to help its youngest citizens,” said Prime Minister Martin. “This Agreement in Principle between Canada and British Columbia moves us closer to a shared vision for early learning and child care. Decades ago, it was a series of such agreements that led to the creation of Medicare in Canada—a program that now helps to define us as Canadians.” “We want to ensure that B.C. families have access to a sustainable, flexible, and affordable early learning and child care system that will ensure B.C. children get the support they need to thrive and succeed,” said Premier Campbell. “The agreement we have signed today will help parents balance the demands of work and family, and assist child care providers with new funding opportunities. It is a critical step in achieving our goal of providing the best systems of support for British Columbians in need.” This announcement follows the Government of Canada’s February 2005 budget commitment to invest $5 billion over five years to enhance and expand high-quality developmental early learning and child care in collaboration with provinces and territories. As announced in previous federal-provincial-territorial meetings on ELCC, this initiative will be guided by the QUAD principles: quality, universally inclusive, accessible, and developmental. In addition, the Government of British Columbia has adopted three principles specific to British Columbia: Choice/Flexibility, Targeted Investments, and Integrated Services. “This Agreement in Principle is another step to making sure that children in British Columbia will have the best possible start in life,” said Minister Dryden. “We are working to develop an ambitious, high-quality, developmental-based system of early learning and child care in every province and territory in this country. We have already signed agreements with six other provinces and, over the coming weeks and months, I expect that we will conclude Agreements in Principle with other provincial and territorial governments.” Over the next five years, with financial support from the Government of Canada, British Columbia will develop an integrated early learning and child care system, with children and families benefiting from increased quality, more developmental programs, and greater early learning and child care opportunities. This initiative builds on British Columbia’s existing early learning and child care investments, and recognizes that flexibility is needed to address provincial priorities and circumstances. British Columbia will consult with stakeholders to develop and release an action plan on early learning and child care by January 2006. Canada and British Columbia will also work together to conclude a detailed multi-year funding agreement. “This money is going to make a real and almost immediate difference to the lives of B.C.’s children and families,” said Minister Hagen. “It will allow our government, led by Linda Reid, Minister of State for Child Care, to expand options for affordable, safe, quality child care, and be more responsive to the needs of aboriginal and multicultural families, creating a truly ‘made-in-B.C.’ approach to early learning and child care.” The Agreement in Principle sets out a long-term vision, principles, and goals to guide the development of regulated early learning and child care for children under six. It also outlines specific objectives that the Government of British Columbia will pursue over the next five years and how that Government will be accountable to British Columbians. Also, the governments of Canada and British Columbia will collaborate with other provinces and territories on knowledge and information that will contribute to more effective early learning and child care programming. As part of this Agreement in Principle, the Government of Canada will work with British Columbia and other interested provincial and territorial governments to develop a National Quality Framework that will guide the development of early learning and child care programming across Canada. British Columbia will continue to report publicly on early learning and child care, so that progress is tracked. The Government of Canada recently signed similar Early Learning and Child Care Agreements in Principle with Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Alberta. It is anticipated that similar agreements with the remaining provinces and territories will be signed in the weeks and months ahead.

Ottawa, Ontario- Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced that the Minister of National Revenue, the Honourable John McCallum, will take over the duties of the Minister of Natural Resources, the Honourable John Efford, while Mr. Efford is unable to perform the functions of his office due to illness. Mr. Efford will retain his responsibility as regional minister for Newfoundland and Labrador. “I thank John Efford for his work since joining Cabinet and hope that his health will allow him to fully resume his responsibilities very soon,” said the Prime Minister. “I know that Minister McCallum will bring his full commitment to his additional duties as Acting Minister of Natural Resources.”

September 9, 2005 Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced that Canada and China have reached seven new agreements designed to enhance co-operation in the areas of transportation, food safety and nuclear energy, in addition to issuing a joint declaration on science and technology. The Prime Minister witnessed the signing of the agreements together with Chinese President Hu Jintao in the Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings, following bilateral discussions. "These new agreements and this joint declaration signal the continued growth of a multi-faceted partnership between Canada and China," said the Prime Minister. “They will strengthen Canada’s interdependent engagement with China and will benefit citizens of both countries." The agreements include increased collaboration on nuclear energy research and development, including advanced reactor systems, safety and design codes, and sustainable fuel cycles. A new bilateral air accord provides for a three-fold increase in passenger and cargo flights to support the growing and important links between China and Canada. It also contains strong aviation safety and security provisions. Additional accords include food safety, plant and animal health, reproductive health and railways. The signing took place during a state visit to Canada by President Hu from September 8 to 11 and 16 to 17. The two partners also issued today a joint declaration in science and technology cooperation. The Participants will conduct a joint “Complementarity Study” to identify areas of science and technology research, such as climate change and sustainable energy, with the greatest potential for mutually beneficial collaboration, to recommend mechanisms most appropriate for stimulating the desired expansion of bilateral research partnerships, and to address other issues that may be a factor in developing enhanced science and technology collaboration.

August 1, 2005

Prime Minister Paul Martin today made the following statement on the news of the death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, First Vice President of Sudan: “It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of Dr. John Garang yesterday in a helicopter accident in southern Sudan. On behalf of the people of Canada - and in particular the Sudanese-Canadian community - I would like to express my deepest condolences to Dr. Garang’s wife and family, as well as to the Government and people of Sudan. Dr. Garang was a leader and visionary, whose commitment to bringing peace to Sudan was recognized three weeks ago on his inauguration as First Vice President in a new government of national unity. Canada's deepest hope is that Dr. Garang's life will be honoured by an even more persistent effort to secure a lasting peace in Sudan, including in the western Darfur provinces, as well as the country's eastern and southern regions. I join with the members of Canada's Special Advisory Team, Ambassador Robert Fowler, Peace Envoy and Senator Mobina Jaffer and Senator Romeo Dallaire, in pledging not only our nation's condolences on the passing of Dr. Garang but also our commitment and assistance in helping encourage progress toward peace for all the people of Sudan.”

Prime Minister Paul Martin today made the following statement on the news that Chuck Cadman, MP for Surrey North had passed away: “It was with great sadness that Sheila and I learned today that Chuck Cadman had passed away after such a long and courageous struggle against cancer. Chuck Cadman was an outstanding and influential Parliamentarian, a man drawn to public service by personal tragedy who made a real and positive difference to Canada’s justice system. A passionate advocate for the rights of victims, his efforts were reflected in a number of changes to the Criminal Code and the proclamation of the new Youth Criminal Justice Act. With integrity and principle, Chuck Cadman came into politics to make a difference. And he succeeded. To say the least, he will be missed by us all. To Chuck’s wife Dona and daughter Jodi, Sheila and I offer our most heartfelt condolences and deepest respect."

July 01, 2005: Prime Minister Paul Martin attends a Canada Day ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. - PMO. Check against delivery Your Excellencies, honoured guests, Canadians here on Parliament Hill and across the land: Among the global family, Canada is still a relatively young nation. But throughout 2005, our history has been our constant companion – reminding us of our country’s accomplishments, urging us to look back and to ponder and to marvel. This is the 125th anniversary of the writing of our national anthem by Calixa Lavallée and Sir Adolphe-Basile Routhier. We are marking the centenaries of Saskatchewan and Alberta. We have commemorated the 60th anniversary of V-E Day and the liberation of the Netherlands by unyielding Canadian troops. We have observed the 20th anniversary of the equality provisions of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. And we have celebrated 40 years of being united as a nation under a flag that we could truly call our own. Beneath the fields of France, a system of tunnels from the First World War remains intact. In a storeroom deep underground, you can still see the image of a maple leaf that a young Canadian solider carved into the wall almost 90 years ago, before the Battle of Vimy Ridge. The maple leaf is a daily and enduring presence in our lives. But it’s especially on Canada Day that we recognize how our flag has come to be so much a part of our history, our nation, and so deeply a part of us. The maple leaf is a symbol of duty and valour, pride and perseverance, ingenuity, diversity and, of course, global hockey supremacy. More than anything else, it’s a symbol of what we as Canadians stand for. That’s why we pin it to our lapels and sew it to our backpacks. We do it so we can carry Canada and its ideals with us. Some – including one of my sons -- even tattoo it on themselves, which as prime minister I consider to be a tremendous declaration of love of country. As a father I’d prefer he’d sew it on his backpack. Many of us remember where we were the day the red maple leaf was raised for the first time to the top of the flagpole – in school yards and city squares, outside town halls and people’s homes, and of course here on Parliament Hill. We felt a bolt of patriotism. We felt that Canada, then not even a century old, had suddenly grown up. I come here and I work under that flag. All Parliamentarians do. And each morning, as we look skyward, we are reminded that four decades ago, we as Canadians committed ourselves boldly and irreversibly to the future, to what Canada could become, to achieving a destiny that would be unmistakably and eternally ours alone. And take a look at us now. Take a look at us -- a free and sovereign nation, rich and respectful, abundant in opportunity and optimism, dedicated to generosity and to sharing, in many ways a model to the world, in many ways the envy of the world. Take a look at us – a proud and diverse people, welcoming to those who come here from around the home, caring of those with whom we share this great land. Take a look at us. Behold the wonder of our landscapes – from the old-growth forest of Cathedral Grove on Vancouver Island, dominated by trees hundreds of feet tall and hundreds of years old, to the jagged ice cliffs of Baffin Island and on to the barren majesty of Signal Hill on Newfoundland. The mountain ranges, coastal towns, the vast expanse of the prairies, the energy and dynamism of our largest cities. Our country is a marvel -- as diverse and as remarkable as the people who inhabit it. Today, on Canada Day, we reflect on how fortunate we are as a nation and as a people. We rejoice in that which makes us Canadian. And we display our deep and tranquil pride in all that we have accomplished, in all that we stand poised to achieve together. Today, we look back on our history, on how we got here, on those who helped to build the country we love so deeply. Tomorrow, we set about making history of our own. This is our country. This is our day. This is our time. Happy birthday Canada.

Ottawa, Ontario- Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced the appointment of the Honourable Belinda Stronach as Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Minister responsible for Democratic Renewal. He has also asked Ms. Stronach to help guide the implementation of the recommendations that flow from the final report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Sponsorship Program and Advertising Activities. The Prime Minister thanked the Honourable Lucienne Robillard, for so capably directing the Department of Human Resources and Skills Development. Minister Robillard will continue in her role as President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs. He also expressed his appreciation of the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, for his able work on Democratic Reform. The Prime Minister has asked Mr. Bélanger to assume additional duties as Minister for Internal Trade.

March 30, 2005

Prime Minister Paul Martin today announced the appointment of Mr. Guy Giguère as Chairperson of the new Public Service Staffing Tribunal (PSST). “Mr. Giguère has extensive knowledge and experience in employment matters in the public sector.” said the Prime Minister. “His background will contribute to the success of the Tribunal as we continue the modernization of human resources management in the Public Service.” In accordance with the Government’s policy of providing a greater role for Parliamentarians in reviewing key appointments, Mr. Giguère’s proposed appointment was referred to the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates. The committee completed its consideration of the proposed appointment on March 22, 2005. The Public Service Staffing Tribunal is a new administrative tribunal established by the Public Service Employment Act. Its mandate is to consider and address complaints regarding internal appointments in the public service of Canada. The Chairperson is the Chief Executive Officer of the PSST and has supervision over and direction of the work of the Tribunal

Ottawa, Ontario- Good morning. I am happy to be here to accept Jim Munson's invitation to wish Happy New Year to all of his former friends. We are embarking on a very busy agenda in the days and weeks ahead. We begin the year with a very strong economy. Last year, the Canadian economy created 560,000 new jobs ... the most in a single year since 1988. This is in sharp contrast to the United States where the employment growth was flat in 2002. This record is impressive. In terms of job creation, Canada has outperformed the United States by a wide margin. In the last two years, the U.S. lost 1.9 million jobs while Canada created almost 600,000 new jobs. Today, all the economic indicators are strong. The country is prosperous. Canadians are confident. They are optimistic. In September 2000, the Federal and provincial governments signed a health accord. Since then the country's health care system has improved. But we have had a number of important studies recommending further change, to build on what we have already achieved. Today, I would like to announce that I am convening a First Ministers Meeting on health care renewal. We will meet in Ottawa February 4th and 5th, starting with a dinner, at 24 Sussex on the 4th and continuing the next day. This meeting will set the course of health care renewal for years to come. Canadians expect their leaders to work together to modernize public medicare. To renew our public health care system. To demonstrate real progress. To ensure timely access to quality care. In a sustainable way. Canadians expect new investments to buy real change. Not more of the same. Canadians want improved access to care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Canadians want expanded public support for health care wherever it is provided - in a hospital, in a community clinic or at home. Canadians want improved access to diagnostic equipment. And Canadians want transparency and accountability from their governments on how health investments achieve outcomes. So health care and the preparation of a successful First Ministers Meeting is a top priority for me. I will work co-operatively and in partnership with other First Ministers. I expect the same co-operation and partnership from them. Canadians deserve no less. This is the time for action not for rhetoric. When the House of Commons returns at the end of the month, we will be introducing significant legislation to reform the financing of political parties. We, in public life, in democracies, have an obligation to address growing cynicism towards government. We must deal with the perception that money can buy undue influence. We will bring about real reform and add more credibility to the Canadian political process. In the third or fourth week of February, the Minister of Finance will bring down his budget. A budget that will continue to demonstrate the fiscal responsibility that has been a hallmark of this government. And with the strength of our economy, it will be a budget that will implement the Throne Speech Agenda. For health. For learning. For child poverty. For the environment. For infrastructure. For Aboriginal Canadians. For international assistance. In recent days, I have been speaking to leaders of other countries. About international affairs. And of course about Iraq. Canada supports Resolution 1441 of the United Nations Security Council, which called on Iraq to divest itself of its weapons of mass destruction. And which deployed UN inspectors to verify. We believe that Iraq can avoid a disastrous war if it takes the necessary steps to disarm. Iraq must conform with Resolution 1441. And the inspectors must have the time to do their job. If the international community decides that the use of force against Iraq is necessary because it is the only way to bring an end to Iraqi non compliance, Canada would do its part. The Canadian position is that on matters of peace and security, the international community must speak and act through the UN Security Council. I am ready to take your questions.

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced today the appointment of Parliamentary Secretaries to assist Ministers with their parliamentary and portfolio responsibilities. "Parliamentary Secretaries make an essential contribution to government," said the Prime Minister. "They are men and women who represent all regions of Canada and bring to the House of Commons their unique perspectives and varied experience. They contribute to the work of government by helping Ministers carry out their parliamentary business. I am delighted that such an outstanding group will be assisting the Ministry as we move ahead with our ambitious agenda as set forth in the Speech from the Throne." While some Parliamentary Secretaries have been reappointed, other members have been appointed for the first time. The Prime Minister expressed his thanks to the outgoing Parliamentary Secretaries for the quality of counsel and assistance they provided the Ministry during their tenure. A list of Parliamentary Secretaries is attached. PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555 PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIES January 2003 Mr. Rodger Cuzner (Bras d'Or -- Cape Breton) Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Steven Mahoney (Mississauga West) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport for Crown Corporations Mr. Marcel Proulx (Hull -- Aylmer) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport Mr. Alan Tonks (York South -- Weston) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment Ms. Judy Sgro (York West) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Ms. Carole-Marie Allard (Laval East) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage Mr. Bryon Wilfert (Oak Ridges) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance Dr. Jeannot Castonguay (Madawaska -- Restigouche) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health Mr. Serge Marcil (Beauharnois -- Salaberry) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry Mr. Tony Tirabassi (Niagara Centre) Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board Mr. Paul Macklin (Northumberland) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Ms. Diane St-Jacques (Shefford) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Human Resources Development Mr. Joe Peschisolido (Richmond) Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Mr. Murray Calder (Dufferin -- Peel -- Wellington -- Grey) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for International Trade Mr. Geoff Regan (Halifax West) Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons Mr. Claude Duplain (Portneuf) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Ms. Nancy Karetak-Lindell (Nunavut) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources Mr. Gurbax Malhi (Bramalea -- Gore -- Malton -- Springdale) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Labour Mr. Charles Hubbard (Miramichi) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Ms. Colleen Beaumier (Brampton West -- Mississauga) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue Mr. Sarkis Assadourian (Brampton Centre) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Mr. Georges Farrah (Bonaventure -- Gaspé -- Îles-de-la-Madeleine -- Pabok) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Mr. Ivan Grose (Oshawa) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs Mr. André Harvey (Chicoutimi -- Le Fjord) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for International Cooperation Ms. Aileen Carroll (Barrie -- Simcoe -- Bradford) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Dominic LeBlanc (Beauséjour -- Petitcodiac) Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence Ms. Marlene Jennings (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce -- Lachine) Parliamentary Secretary to the Solicitor General of Canada