Toronto: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) today responded to Premier McGuinty's latest promise not to raise taxes. The CTF is urging Ontarians not to be fooled again. CTF Ontario Director Kevin Gaudet said, "Mr. McGuinty has a clear record on promises not to raise taxes. It is a record of broken promises. He is clearly not a man of his word. For this election promise Ontarians should not be fooled. Mr. McGuinty, fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."

On September 11, 2003, Dalton McGuinty signed a pledge that stated, "I, Dalton McGuinty, leader of the Liberal Party of Ontario, promise, if my party is elected as the next government, that I will: Not raise taxes or implement any new taxes without the explicit consent of Ontario voters and will not run deficits. I promise to abide by the Taxpayer Protection and Balanced Budget Act." Mr. McGuinty broke his promise with the Health Tax of up to $900 per person. As well, he has provided back-door tax increases in Toronto through the City of Toronto Act which is being used to introduce up to ten new taxes.

Gaudet concluded with a challenge to the Premier, "If the Premier wants to be believed, instead of another promise, he should extend the session, repeal the Health Tax and amend the City of Toronto Act withdrawing the taxing powers."

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For further information please contact:

Kevin Gaudet 416-725-0501