WINNIPEG - May 27, 2005 - Committed to repairing the city’s crumbling infrastructure, Mayor Sam Katz today provided an update to the people of Winnipeg on negotiations to put a deal in place that would see millions in federal gas tax funds flow to help tackle the crushing infrastructure deficit.

“I am very pleased to report that we are engaged in intensive discussions to get the deal done,” said Katz. “Staff from the city administration are meeting with senior representatives from Ottawa, and I believe everyone is committed to finding a solution to address Winnipeg’s number one priority – crumbling roads and bridges.”

Katz addressed concerns that federal government rules surrounding the gas tax sharing plans prevent Winnipeg from spending any federal gas tax revenue on repairing roads and bridges, noting that creative solutions have been found before that allowed all levels of government to meet obligations.

“We did it before with community centres, and we can do it again. I am optimistic that we can find a positive solution on gas tax,” said Katz. “But I want to make it clear – this is an absolutely essential priority for us.”