Ottawa, ON - David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, was in the House of Commons today when the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, delivered Budget 2010, the Government's fifth Budget since taking office in 2006.

Budget 2010 recognizes the challenges Canada faces as it continues its recovery from the global economic recession and outlines an agenda to contribute to the recovery. It includes three broad aims which consist of: $19 billion in new Federal stimulus under Year 2 of Canada's Economic Action Plan to create and maintain jobs, complemented by $6 billion from provinces, territories, municipalities and other partners; investing in a limited number of new, targeted initiatives to build jobs and growth for the economy of tomorrow, strengthen Canadian innovation, and make Canada a destination of choice for new business; and finally, it charts a new course to bring Canada's finances back to balance over the medium term and well before any other Group of 7 (G7) country.

Year 2 of Canada's Economic Action Plan proposes to create jobs and to help Canadians through the country's ongoing recovery by: providing $3.2 billion in personal income tax relief; over $4 billion in actions to create and protect jobs; $2.2 billion to support industries and communities; and $7.7 billion in infrastructure stimulus to create jobs.  

Other highlights of Budget 2010 included: new investments in jobs and economic growth; support for families, communities, veterans, and seniors; honouring Canada's international commitments; and a three-point plan to return to budget balance.

Mr. Tilson was available for comment following the presentation of Budget 2010. When asked for his thoughts on what Budget 2010 represents for Dufferin-Caledon, he responded, "Budget 2010 continues our Government's commitment to provide tax relief during these uncertain times when families are still feeling the remaining effects of the recession. Measures to protect and create new jobs are also key and a major concern in my riding."

When asked about his Government's approach to returning to budget balance, he replied, "Our Government is responding to what Canadians want - a sustainable, long-term economic plan that will secure Canada's future. We are exercising restraint and working to identify opportunities for additional savings, as this is what Canadians expect from their Government during these uncertain times."