Laval mayor denies Vincent Auclair's allegations

Formal notice sent to Serge Ménard and Vincent Auclair

LAVAL, QC, Nov. 16 /CNW Telbec/ - The mayor of Laval, Gilles Vaillancourt, is formally denying having given money to Vincent Auclair, now MNA for the riding of Vimont, at a meeting in his office in 2002.

Mr. Vaillancourt is especially surprised by Mr. Auclair's statement since he had personally confirmed to Mr. Vaillancourt on the weekend that he did not recall the mayor or anyone from his entourage offering him an envelope. Mr. Vaillancourt signed an affidavit to this effect. Mr. Auclair said the same thing to the mayor's chief of staff on Monday during the day.

"In less than 24 hours, Mr. Auclair completely changes his story," said Mr. Vaillancourt. "These changeable allegations are baffling, to say the least."

Mr. Vaillancourt reiterated that he had not offered any money to Serge Ménard at a meeting in his office in 1993.

Mr. Vaillancourt stressed that out of deference, he has never contributed to provincial political parties. The only political contributions he makes are to the municipal party of which he is leader.

The mayor of Laval is still astounded by Mr. Ménard's allegations. Over the past 17 years, Mr. Ménard has on many occasions expressed his gratitude for the mayor's efforts on behalf of the people of Laval.

Mr. Vaillancourt is demanding a retraction by Mr. Ménard and Mr. Auclair. Two formal notices to this effect will be issued by Mr. Vaillancourt's lawyers in the next few hours.

For further information:

Jean-Maurice Duddin
Press secretary
450-662-4140
[email protected]