REPORT FROM PARLIAMENT

The Olympics are just a week away. The Olympic torch is edging closer and closer to Vancouver. In every city and town across Canada the excitement and anticipation is growing. All Canadians look forward to cheering on our athletes as they hope to make the podium or achieve a personal best.

The Olympics games grab the world’s attention for two weeks. From the opening to the closing ceremonies the world’s eyes will be focused on the events occurring in Canada, specifically in Vancouver.

Your Conservative Government will continue to work hard even during the Olympics. Meetings are scheduled with Citizens from across the country as we put together the 2010 budget. We are keeping our eyes focused on economic recovery and health and welfare of Canadians while our athletes keep their eyes on the gold medal.

All Canadians have made sacrifices in some way during the recent economic turbulence. After the completion of the stimulus money distribution, stage two of the Economic Action Plan comes into effect. Step 2 involves re-evaluating government spending excesses and identifying cost saving measures that will save Canadians money and reduce our debt significantly.

We are already on the path to economic recovery, and are committed to once again having a balanced budget by 2015. Canadians have much to celebrate, a competitive, recovering economy and a world class Olympic team ready to bring home the gold.

Hon. Gerry Ritz is the Member of Parliament for Battlefords-Lloydminster www.gerryritzmp.ca