EDMONTON: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) petition campaign against increasing health care premiums is picking up speed. Launched at the end of January, the message on the petition states: "Keep your promise, Premier Klein! Don't increase health care premiums or any other tax." Signed petitions will be presented to the Premier's Office when the Legislature reconvenes on February 26.

The CTF has already received petitions with over 500 signatures in its Edmonton office. Over 2000 petitions have been distributed by fax and e-mail to CTF supporters across Alberta, and more than 200 petitions have been mailed out to individuals who have called the CTF's Edmonton office requesting copies.

"Albertans expect Premier Klein to honour his promise to taxpayers, made before the 2001 election, that the only way taxes are going is down," stated CTF-Alberta director John Carpay.

"Spending on government programs, per person, is higher in Alberta than any other Canadian province. The last thing this government needs is more money from taxpayers," added Carpay.