Another day, another outrage. Volume XII, No. 3
Yesterday we learned that Ottawa's secret National Unity Reserve was actually much bigger than originally dislcosed. About $65 million/year (not the previously stated $40 million) was used to fund everything from the “Canadian Irish Studies Foundation” to the sponsorship program. All of the money was at the discretion of the Prime Minister. It's painfully clear that the rot in the Chretien years, given this and the laundry list of other revelations, was way worse than we thought. As always, there will be little anger among regular Canadians. But Paul Martin’s government should, at least, be complimented for axing this slush fund: his officials reportedly called it a “honey pot…not consistent with the values of sound fiscal management." True. Very true. But even though the program has been “terminated” why is it still going? $49 million in FY2004-05 and $16.2 million in 05/06. Reg Alock, the treasury board prez, says it would be unfair to cancel previously promised money. Huh.
# posted by Adam Daifallah : 10:28 AM
