Area MP takes a stand in Liberal leadership race

NEWS RELEASE

BRENT ST. DENIS, MP ALGOMA-MANITOULIN- KAPUSKASING

******************** St. Denis supports Kennedy for Liberal leader

May 2nd, 2006 - Brent St. Denis, MP for Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing, announced that he is supporting Gerard Kennedy in his bid to become the next leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.

Born in Manitoba, Mr. Kennedy has lived and worked in Western Canada and in the East.

He recently stepped-down as Ontario's Education Minister and launched his campaign at an outdoor amphitheatre in Ottawa this week.

There, he spoke of a Canada that is a magnet for talent, with greater influence in the world’s economy and international affairs.

"I share Mr. Kennedy's vision of a Canada that embraces bilingualism and multiculturalism," said St. Denis. "He and I value fiscal responsibility and social justice, as well as individual freedom and collective responsibility."

Mr. Kennedy brings forward a new Liberal value, enterprise.

His speech set out a bold plan to bring an enterprise culture to Canada.

Speaking about practical compassion, Kennedy addressed the need to tackle extreme poverty, deal with the historic injustice and current realities facing Aboriginal Canadians and develop a national policy for seniors.

He also introduced the concept of Canada as an International country which will re-focus us on Canada’s place in the world.

"Mr. Kennedy's plans reflect the needs of the people of Northern Ontario and of all Canadians," concluded St. Denis. "I am supporting Gerard because I feel we need a new vision for this party and for this country.”

Mr. Kennedy said his approach centres on a need for leadership in Ottawa that is ambitious enough to unlock the potential of this great country and inspires every Canadian to work together with a powerful sense of purpose.

*******************