The House of Commons Finance Committee will shortly begin discussing its recommendations for the year 2000 budget. The committee's pre-budget consultations are an annual part of the budget process, and once again this year the committee has asked Members of Parliament to share the thoughts and concerns of their constituents.
Annual pre-budget discussions have been an invaluable tool in helping me understand what you think Canada's budgetary priorities should be, and I will be continuing the tradition this year.
I hope that you will be able to join me on Thursday, Oct. 21, 7:30 p.m., at Sir Guy Carleton High School (55 Centrepointe Dr.) for the Ottawa West–Nepean Budget 2000 Public Forum. Bring your ideas about what you feel Canada's spending and saving priorities should be, or simply drop by to hear what others have to say.
Over the years, many constituents have told me that while they would like to participate in my pre-budget consultations, work or family commitments make it difficult for them to attend evening meetings.
In the hopes of allowing as many people as possible to share their opinion, my fall newsletter that was delivered to all households in Ottawa West–Nepean contains a quick Budget 2000 questionnaire.
I hope that you have had the chance fill it out and let me know what you think the federal government's priority for the millennium budget should be. If not, I encourage you to do so. Of course, if you would like to participate but no longer have a copy of the survey my office will be happy to provide you with one.
The comments and suggestions I will receive will be forwarded to the House of Commons Finance Committee and the Minister of Finance. These pre-budget consultations are your opportunity to have a real influence on our next federal budget. I look forward to seeing you on Oct. 21.