Federal Gas Tax Funding Doubles and Payments Accelerated

April 03, 2009

Ottawa – Ted Menzies, Member of Parliament for Macleod and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance, is pleased to announce that on April 1st, 2009, the federal Gas Tax Transfers to the provinces and territories to support better municipal infrastructure doubled to $2 billion annually.

The Gas Tax Fund (GTF) will remain at that level beyond 2014 because the Government made it a permanent measure, which will provide Alberta municipalities with stable and predictable funding for their long-term infrastructure priorities. Accelerating the first payment of the GTF by almost three months, our government is making up to $1 billion available to municipalities almost three months early.

“By doubling the GTF and accelerating the payments by three months, our government is demonstrating that it is committed to creating jobs for Canadians and ensuring that Canada remains strong and prosperous,” said Menzies. “We are working with all levels of government to stimulate regional economies, cut red tape, get shovels in the ground sooner, and help get Canadians back to work.”
 
The GTF is part of an ongoing commitment from the Government of Canada to create jobs and stimulate the economy through modern public infrastructure. It is also an example of all levels of government working together to improve infrastructure and the quality of life of Canadians.

The GTF is providing Albertans with stable funding that will have a tangible impact on their quality of life and the long-term sustainability of their communities.  Alberta will have received $1.275 billion in GTFs through 2014.  In 2009-2010, Alberta will receive $190.8 million in GTFs; double the $95.4 million in GTF received in 2008-2009.

For more information please visit: http://www.buildingcanada-chantierscanada.gc.ca/