-- CTF Declares "Victory", Commends Premier for Fiscal Leadership --

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OTTAWA: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) has claimed a "monumental victory" for Ontario taxpayers after today's passage of Bill-7, commonly referred to as the Taxpayer Protection and Balanced Budget Legislation Act.

"Finally, after 4 years, 5 months and 24 days, Premier Harris has honoured the CTF Taxpayer Protection Pledge which he signed on May 30th, 1995. This legislation has died on the order paper twice before, but today we can celebrate a positive public policy legacy," stated CTF federal director Walter Robinson. "After striking out at the balanced budget plate twice before, Premier Harris has hit a home run for Ontario taxpayers."

Bill-7 forever now binds the current administration and future governments to hold referendums should they wish to raise taxes including income, property and fuel taxes. Bill-7 also provides for financial penalties for the Premier and members of Cabinet should the province run fiscal deficits after the 2000/2001 fiscal year.

"The CTF has led the charge for almost six years to make balanced budgets the law in Ontario. We made this an election issue in 1995 and again in 1999. This is a huge victory for our supporters and all Ontario taxpayers," said Robinson. "While we have been critical of the Premier for the lengthy delay in honouring his pledge, today he has shown courage and leadership with a legacy initiative for present and future taxpayers."

Ontario is now the seventh province with some form of Balanced Budget Legislation on its books. Moreover, Ontario's Taxpayer Protection Act is now the most comprehensive in Canada surpassing the measures of similar legislation in effect in Manitoba and Alberta.

"Former CTF directors Paul Pagnuelo (Ontario) and Jason Kenney (Federal) also deserve recognition for securing Mike Harris' commitment in 1995. In addition, Minister Tony Clement deserves special credit for his efforts at the Cabinet Table for tirelessly championing this initiative amongst his colleagues," added Robinson. "Today is a great day for Ontario."