Ottawa – Denise Savoie, MP for Victoria, today expressed mixed emotions about the Speech from the Throne.

“I am encouraged that the government has listened to the NDP and included some of the key priorities of the people of Victoria. However, I am frankly quite disappointed that several other crucial issues were either glossed over or omitted altogether.”

Savoie was pleased that the government included “working families” as a priority, and that they appeared to show some flexibility about the creation of child care spaces and the protection of public health care. However, Savoie was frustrated that serious issues of great concern to her constituents received only brief attention or none at all.

“After 13 years of Liberal Throne Speeches, I hesitate to get excited about vague promises until I see results,” she said. “Tack-on references to supporting Canada’s seniors and protecting our environment aren’t enough. It’s heartening that the Conservatives acknowledge the existence of greenhouse gases, but if they refuse to say the word ‘Kyoto’ I’m anxious to see what alternative plan they propose to genuinely and urgently tackle climate change.”

Savoie noted that while Canadians face crucial funding shortages for affordable housing, post-secondary education and skills training, yesterday’s Throne Speech was notably silent on both counts.

“No one is building affordable housing in Victoria because there is no incentive. This situation requires leadership by the federal government, not silence.”

“Further, I fail to see how the Conservatives plan to achieve their ‘brilliant future’ when college and university students are facing sky-high tuition on the way in and overwhelming debt on the way out as they begin their careers.”

“Canadians voted for change from the Liberals. This Throne Speech leads me to question how the Conservative agenda will really help ordinary working families.”

That said, Savoie remains hopeful and ready to begin working constructively with the government to remind them of the priorities of Victorians and all Canadians.

“I’ll be watching closely to see to it that Mr. Harper translates his lofty words into concrete results.”

For more information, please contact Ed Gillis (613) 947-4424

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