Letters
Bezan responds to criticism over cheques
Posted 2 months ago
Dear Editor:
Re: Nov. 20, 2009 Letter to the editor from Kevin Walsh re: Stimulus Package
I find former Selkirk-Interlake Liberal candidate Kevin Walsh's rant about my use of novelty cheques and our government's Economic Action Plan puzzling.
Members of Parliament are often called upon to make announcements on behalf of the Government. The novelty cheques that I use are non-partisan, are clearly marked with Government of Canada, and if applicable, the Province of Manitoba logos. My name appears on the bottom of the cheque but not as a signature, and if applicable, includes the provincial NDP MLA's name who is participating in the announcement on behalf of the Province of Manitoba. The purpose of the novelty cheque, is to draw attention to the investment and expenditure of the Government in our area. This is about transparency.
If we applied the illogic of Mr. Walsh, the names of politicians would never appear in government press releases or in any announcements in our riding. As a member of the Government in the House of Commons, it is my duty to advocate for these projects, and when projects are successful, announce them as defined under both Treasury Board guidelines and House of Commons ethics rules.
The Conservative government has responded to the world wide economic turn down in a responsible and appropriate manner. The Economic Action Plan is providing economic stimulus that is creating jobs and building much needed infrastructure right across Canada, including in our riding of Selkirk-Interlake. As part of that government, I have worked hard on behalf of my constituents, advocating for communities and these projects. I am very proud of these investments in roads, water and sewer systems, recreational upgrades, and other stimulus funded projects in Selkirk-Interlake.
A critique from a failed Liberal candidate, whose party is still reeling from their sponsor scandal that stole millions of taxpayer dollars to line the pockets of the Liberal Party of Canada and its friends, is indeed humorous. On a serious note Mr. Walsh, when will the Liberal Party finally pay back the $50 million still owed to Canadians?
Yours truly,
James Bezan
Member of Parliament
Selkirk-Interlake - Manitoba
