QUEEN’S PARK– Finance Minister Dwight Duncan has concluded his annual Pre-Budget Consultations, in a province-wide series of open discussions between the McGuinty government and the citizens of Ontario.

“These consultations have given me an opportunity to directly listen to Ontarians,” said Duncan. “I now have the responsibility of setting the government’s priorities as I prepare the 2008 Budget.”

Over the 13 sessions, Duncan met with more than 700 individuals and organizations.  The Ministry of Finance has received more than 400 written and online submissions.

During the course of the consultations, certain themes emerged across the province. There was a universal request for Ontario to press the federal government to come to the aid of the ailing manufacturing sector as well as address the significant inequities for Ontario employees by providing more funding for Employment Insurance.

Each session also presented unique insight on regional issues.  For instance, cities that rely on traditional manufacturing expressed their concerns about the effects of a slowing U.S. economy.  Others requested funding to support infrastructure projects.

“There are challenges ahead and we are committed to remaining disciplined and prudent fiscal managers,” said Duncan. “While meeting our platform commitments, I am confident that with the input of Ontarians, we can continue to build our economy and move Ontario forward.”

The Pre-Budget Consultations were kicked off last December in Thunder Bay and continued with visits to Sudbury, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, Stratford, Cornwall, Ottawa, Barrie, Windsor, Toronto and Oak Ridges.

Contact: Steve Erwin Minister's Office 416-325-3645	Scott Blodgett Ministry of Finance 416-325-0324