For Immediate Release
May 8, 2007

MPP LAURIE SCOTT SIGNS JOINT LETTER URGING AUDITOR TO INVESTIGATE SLUSH FUND SCANDAL
Scott says this is about proper accountability for tax dollars

(Queen’s Park) – Progressive Conservative MPP Laurie Scott (Haliburton-Victoria-Brock) today joined MPPs from both the Progressive Conservative and NDP Caucuses in sending a joint letter to Ontario’s Auditor-General asking him to investigate the ongoing slush fund scandal.

“This is an unprecedented level of co-operation between opposition parties and it underscores the seriousness of this scandal,” said Scott. “The Auditor General must fully investigate the slush fund scandal. This is not an issue about policy or political ideology; it is about a fundamental issue of accountability and fairness.”

All 34 members of the PC and NDP Caucuses signed the letter which asks the Auditor to initiate a full review of government year-end spending out of secret funds and report back before September 10, 2007. The letter asks the Auditor to probe: how much money exists in secret funds; how it is being spent; for what purpose; who is receiving these funds; and how these recipients are selected.

“The Opposition Parties have asked over 250 questions and have not received one single answer.  Dalton McGuinty has allowed his Minister to make a mockery of the Legislature and a mockery of any sensible standard of Ministerial accountability,” said Scott.  “Ontarians deserve an independent investigation.  If he has nothing to hide, Dalton McGuinty will make the call to the Auditor General and clear the air on this matter.”

Scott added, “If Dalton McGuinty continues to hide, we are calling on the Auditor General to exercise his prerogative to review this matter on his own accord and report back to the public prior to the next election.  No government – even if Dalton McGuinty thinks he can - has the right to hide the truth.”

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For Further Information Contact:
Laurie Scott, MPP
705- 324-6654