RCMP institutes a criminal investigation following allegations brought forward by Ms. Wasylycia-Leis

Ottawa, December 28, 2005 - The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has completed its initial review of the allegation by Ms. Wasylycia-Leis regarding a possible breach of security or illegal transfer of information in advance of the federal government's announcement of changes to the taxation of Canadian corporate dividends and Income Trusts of November 23, 2005.

Given the seriousness of the allegations, the RCMP is now undertaking a criminal investigation of this matter.

In particular, the RCMP wishes to note that at this time there is no evidence of wrongdoing or illegal activity on the part of anyone associated to this investigation including the Minister of Finance Ralph Goodale.

For media inquiries, please contact:
RCMP Public Affairs and Communication Services Directorate at (613) 993-2999.

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