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Protecting the pocketbook Even though our national election is in full swing, the Ontario Legislature continues in session. There are significant debates taking place at Queen's Park right now. This spring, our party has focused on some of the pocketbook issues facing Ontario families. Rising hydro bills, the HST and other high taxes, along with the high cost of gasoline are stretching household budgets to the limit. Unfortunately, the McGuinty government seems oblivious to the economic worries our families are facing. On March 29, the government tabled its provincial budget. It contained no new significant measures to make life easier in Ontario. In fact, much of the budget speech was an unprecedented and irresponsible attack on the official opposition. But the most important fact coming out of the budget is that Mr. McGuinty has no credible plan to balance it without a massive tax increase. This would come next year, if he is re-elected this fall. I believe they would raise the HST between 2 and 5 percentage points. It would go from its current rate of 13 per cent to between 15 per cent and 18 per cent. Let's remember their record. After promising not to raise taxes in 2003, they brought in the health tax, which in truth is a brand new provincial income tax. It does not go directly to health care; it goes into the government's general account. Then, after promising not to raise taxes in 2007, they surprised us with the HST. Sun Sensation! DR. CAROLINE TESKE & DR. JOEL SCHAEFER presents 7 Independent & Free Press, Tuesday, April 12, 2011 Ted Arnott They tell us a one per cent cut to the HST would cost the treasury $3 billion. The deficit this year is projected to be $16.3 billion. This means they are borrowing $1.86 million an hour, every hour, 24 hours a day. And worse, the provincial debt has almost doubled since Mr. McGuinty took office. All of these numbers add up to one thing: they cannot close the gap without a massive tax increase-- a tax increase that Ontario families can ill afford. Our party is advocating an alternative. We need a new approach that focuses on priorities, identifies savings, and eliminates wasteful spending, instead of kneejerk tax increases. Only then can we avoid a pending debt crisis like those of Greece and Portugal. We have to accept our responsibility to future generations. And a better future it will be. --Ted Arnott is the MPP for WellingtonHalton Hills and can be reached at 1-800265-2366. His website address is www.tedarnottmpp.com ANNUAL SUNGLASS SHOW Thursday, April 14, 2011 5 - 8 pm Representatives from our most popular sunglass companies will be presenting their complete lines of sunglasses. We welcome you to come in and bring a friend! DOOR PRIZES & REFRESHMENTS SPECIAL SAVINGS 99 Sinclair Ave., #310, Georgetown 905-702-1616 MINUTES AWAY, MILES AHEAD John Haden General Manager BEST Dealership BEST Location BEST Value 2011 ESCAPE XLT Stock # R15195 2011 RANGER SPORT S/CAB · 4L V6 · Auto · Air Conditioning · Privacy Glass $1000 Accessories Available! · Auto · Air Conditioning · Cruise · Roof Rack · SYNC Stock # A14977 $ 15,999 CUSTOMIZE UP TO or $ 299 TR UCK WI TH WORTH OF NO E XTRA CHARGE FORD CUSTOM ACCE S SORIE S per month for 72 months Tax Included $ 20,999 or $ 389 per month for 72 months Tax Included YO UR FORD MANUF ACT URER REBATE ON SELECT NEW 2011 FORD TRUCKS WITH THE PURCHASE OR LEASE OF MOST NEW 2011 FORD TRUCKS All new offers OAC. All new vehicle prices are plus HST and fees. Payments $299 down for Ranger, $389 for Escape on 72 months, taxes and fees included. Conditions apply to Recycle Your Ride and Ford Credit offers. These are direct to customer credits made after purchase. Not all buyers may qualify. Conditions Apply. See dealer for full details. CONCEPT 361 Guelph St. (Hwy. #7), Georgetown 905-873-1626 www.conceptford.com