OTTAWA, ON, March 4, 2010– A broad and diverse range of economists, business organizations, public-interest groups, and commentators are applauding today’s federal budget as a positive plan to create jobs and promote economic growth:

• Canadian Chamber of Commerce: “Welcomed the federal government's strategy to achieve its recovery plan, to return to balanced budgets and to promote a more innovative and competitive economy.”

• Canadian Construction Association: “The federal government has recognized the importance of infrastructure and maintained its investment in development and renewal. The much needed spending announced last year provided stimulus to the Canadian economy through investments in infrastructure, college infrastructure, green technology, as well as new incentives to help in retraining Canada’s unemployed.”

• Conference Board of Canada: “(Budget 2010 was) very well crafted, and the deficit reduction target was a very credible plan.”

• CD Howe Institute: “Eliminating all tariffs on inputs is an absolutely brilliant move. Tariffs are just plain dumb in imposing costs on businesses … it is a superb message … in terms of attracting investors but also in taking a leadership role in establishing an agenda aimed at trade liberalization and broad-based economic growth.”

• Federation of Canadian Municipalities: “FCM applauds the federal government for protecting core investments in cities and communities as it reduces the federal budget deficit. These investments will help local governments - and Canadian property tax payers - build the infrastructure that is the backbone of our economy and quality of life.”

• Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada: “We are pleased that the government is continuing to invest in university research and innovation to create jobs today and to build the economy of tomorrow. This budget sends an important signal. It shows that the government recognizes the vital role universities play in creating opportunities for Canadians in the new economy.”

• Direct Sellers Association of Canada: “(Budget 2010) confirm(s) this government is committed to creating an environment where entrepreneurial activity can grow and jobs can be created."

• Forest Products Association of Canada: "From a forest industry perspective, the Government has its priorities right: investing in green jobs of tomorrow, stimulating the economy through clean energy technologies.”

• Certified General Accountants Association of Canada: “The budget addresses the right priorities - continuing with necessary economic stimulus, focusing on innovation, and charting a course for a return to budget balance.”

• Certified Management Accountants of Canada: “CMA Canada believes Budget 2010 makes Canadian businesses more globally competitive by eliminating barriers to investment in Canada and increasing their capacity to innovate. CMA Canada is encouraged that the government is focusing on innovation, such as developing a Digital Economy Strategy that will further prepare Canadian companies to meet the changing nature of global competition and ensure Canada's future economic prosperity.”

• Canadian Federation of Independent Business was pleased with: “measures to tackle the deficit and recognize the contribution of small business in growing the economy and creating jobs.”

• Canadian Council of Chief Executives: “2010 federal budget recognizes that economic recovery remains fragile and job creation tentative, but its commitment to fiscal discipline will ensure that Canada emerges from the current period of economic weakness in better shape than ever.”

• Investment Industry Association of Canada: “The federal budget, released today, charts a prudent course to support recovery of the Canadian economy and bring public finances back into balance. The government has set out a realistic plan to reduce the $54 billion deficit to near fiscal balance in five years.”

• Derek Holt, Scotia Capital economist: “I like this budget, quite frankly. I think it's the right budget for uncertain times.”