Prime Minister Paul Martin opens western tour with private think-tank meeting
Updated at 20:31 on August 22, 2005, EST.
Prime Minister Paul Martin, Edmonton, Monday. (CP/Jason Scott)
EDMONTON (CP) - Despite gas prices ballooning almost as high as federal budget surpluses, Prime Minister Paul Martin said Monday that the government isn't considering reducing any of Ottawa's take at the pumps.
Speaking in Edmonton as part of a swing through the three Prairie provinces, Martin said municipalities are already counting on money collected through federal gas taxes, which include a cent-a-half surcharge introduced to fight a deficit that was eliminated years ago.
Martin made the remarks after a two-hour meeting with members of the Canada West Foundation, a think-tank devoted bringing a western perspective on policy development.
The prime minister defended his government's record on easing western discontent.
He said his government includes such influential westerners as Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan. Important policy initiatives - such as the cities agenda that opened the flow of gas tax revenue to municipalities - have come in response to western initiatives.
Martin's Edmonton agenda included a private reception with about three dozen major donors to the Liberal party. Liberal officials say each of those in attendance have given the party $5,000 - the legal maximum.
(there is now a big flap because he also used the challenger jets for this)
Here thy are both discussing something with Ujjal Dosanjh.
Linky
CKA Uber 
