-- CTF Sends Sports Subsidy Policy Briefing Kit to Local Liberal MPs --

OTTAWA: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) today sent a "briefing kit" to the ten Liberal MPs (eight from Ontario, two from Quebec) who are members of the National Capital Region (NCR) Liberal Caucus. The NCR Liberal Caucus is scheduled to meet with Ottawa Senators owner Rod Bryden tomorrow (March 11) to discuss the current financial predicament of the Ottawa Senators.

"We believe it is important for local MPs to hear the other side of the story when it comes to sports economics and the disastrous experiences, especially south of the border when taxpayers are asked to subsidize private sports endeavours," said CTF federal director Walter Robinson. "This kit contains recommended economic studies, academic papers and books that MPs should consult before they make any decisions on taxpayer support for pro hockey."

Also included in the kit are newspaper and press articles, including a published OPED by Mr. Robinson which point to the lunacy of taxpayer support for pro-sports.

"Boosterism has overtaken reason while flawed economic arguments masquerade as real journalism in this debate," added Robinson. "The lack of balance and integrity on this issue has reached ridiculous proportions; our efforts today seek to restore some sanity and balance to this situation."

In his letter to Nepean-Carleton MP David Pratt (Chair of the NCR Caucus), Mr. Robinson requests the opportunity to meet with local Liberal MPs to further explain the CTF's position on this matter. "If they wish to make an informed decision, relevant facts and information are crucial," said Robinson.

"This debate is not about being for or against hockey. This debate is about the proper role of government, the risks inherent in private enterprise and ensuring that politicians at all levels understand the difference between public and private pursuits," concluded Robinson.