Looking forward to Parliament's return on Sept 19th and to being back in Ottawa to represent the great people of Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale. This Fall the Government will be focusing on the economy, jobs and reducing the deficit.

On the economic front, we’ve seen storms of uncertainly brewing in Europe and in the United States in recent weeks. As Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said when he appeared before the House of Commons Finance Committee last month and in subsequent interviews, Canada is not immune to the volatile global economic environment – reiterating that the Canadian economy is still very fragile.

I spoke on this topic at recent meetings of Rotary Clubs in Ancaster and Dundas.

The difference between now and Fall 2008 is that back then it was the impact of the international credit crisis and a loss of confidence in financial institutions. Whereas this time the volatility in the global economy is being triggered by a problem of confidence in the efforts of U.S. and European governments to reduce their deficits.

Since Canada is a trading nation we are impacted. We saw that in the numbers released by Statistics Canada last week. While Canada's economy grew in June, it contracted slightly in the second quarter of 2011.

All of this reaffirms our Government’s focus on jobs and the economy by implementing the next phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan and proceeding with what the IMF describes as “a sound and credible plan to return to budget surpluses”. 

The good news is that Canada is well-positioned going in. Canada is the only G-7 country that has regained more than all of the output and the jobs lost during the downturn. Moody's recently renewed Canada's AAA credit rating. And both the IMF and the OECD forecast that Canada’s economy will be among the strongest in the G-7 this year and next.

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Lastly, a reflection on the state funeral for Jack Layton held at the end of last month. It was one of those events that moves everyone. In the words of the Prime Minister, Jack was an engaging personality and a man of strong principle – a man dedicated to public life. He will be sorely missed.

The passing of Jack Layton is a reminder to us all to take time for family, friends and those we love.

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A reminder to all motorcycle enthusiasts about the charity ride on Saturday, September 17. As an Honourary Co-Chair, I invite you to join me on a ride throughout the area in support of the great work that Hamilton-based Liberty For Youth does in prevention and intervention. All are welcome. For details and to register, visit www.libertyforyouth.org/eagleride.