Many Canadians think the Speech from the Throne is mostly traditional or just a symbolic way of beginning a new Parliament. MP Guy Lauzon says, "The Throne Speech delivered by Governor General David Johnston on June 3 contained important items of interest to the constituents of Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry."

PHOTO CREDIT - GuyLauzon.ca

Cornwall - Jun. 14, 2011 - Many Canadians think the Speech from the Throne is mostly traditional or just a symbolic way of beginning a new Parliament. Let me tell you, there is much more to this event than symbolism and tradition. The actual intent of the Throne Speech is to lay out the government's plan for the coming session of Parliament. A Throne Speech usually maps out, in broad terms, what the government's agenda will be and what they hope to accomplish in the upcoming months. The Throne Speech is designed to give Parliament and all Canadians an agenda or vision the governing party plans to follow. The Throne Speech delivered by Governor General David Johnston on June 3 contained important items of interest to the constituents of Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry.

The main theme of the Speech from the Throne is jobs and economic growth. The government plans to do this by reintroducing Budget 2011 and implementing the next phase of the Economic Action Plan. This phase will provide tax relief to Canadians, defend supply management, attract foreign investment, and deliver on the shared vision for perimeter security and economic competitiveness.

We plan to bring the federal budget back to balance one year earlier than forecasted, and to undertake a strategic and operating review of government spending in all ministries. We also plan to enhance the Guaranteed Income Supplement, improve support for caregivers, encourage saving for retirement and create a Children's Art Tax Credit.

We will also bring forth our "tough on crime" agenda to protect our most vulnerable by addressing violence against women and children, as well as, introducing tougher sentences for those who abuse seniors.

We will finally be in a position to once and for all eliminate the long gun registry in the upcoming session of Parliament. We will introduce legislation aimed at reforming the Senate, thereby preventing 45 year terms for Senators. Our government will also introduce legislation that will cancel the current per vote subsidy for political parties. There are many more items included in the Throne Speech, too numerous to list here but, I suggest you go to my website at www.guylauzon.ca if you wish to read the Speech in its entirety.

Based on the items included in the ambitious agenda listed above I think you can appreciate why I say the Speech from the Throne is a heck of a lot more than just pomp and ceremony.

Guy Lauzon
Member of Parliament
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry