Statement by FCM president Basil Stewart following today's speech by New
Democratic Party leader Jack Layton

TORONTO, May 30 /CNW Telbec/ - The following statement was released today by Mayor Basil Stewart of Summerside, P.E.I., president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), following the speech to delegates by New Democratic Party leader Jack Layton at FCM's annual conference:

"Today, Jack Layton told municipalities that they've earned a seat at the national decision-making table, and committed to working with them to claim their rightful place as full partners with other orders of government.

We applaud Mr. Layton's commitment to our cities and communities and look forward to working with him to secure municipalities a full partnership with the federal government.

For as long as he has been in Ottawa, Mr. Layton has been a good friend and advocate for municipalities. As a former president of FCM, he carries with him a deep understanding of municipal issues. His message that municipalities are not looking for a handout, but rather a handshake is right on the mark. He talked about the need for Ottawa to partner with cities on issues such as transit, infrastructure, affordable housing and climate change.

Mr. Layton appreciates that in order for Canada to be a world leader on economic growth, the federal government must work in tandem with municipalities. Not doing so would hurt our economy, our quality of life and our ability to compete globally. He believes that building a stronger Canada means building vibrant, sustainable and safe cities. We couldn't agree more."

For further information: Eric Collard, [phone] or [email protected]