We've been given some important new tools to expand our reach, and to offer consumers more choice. Canada already has one of the world's strongest cooperative banking sectors. The new financial services legislation offers credit unions more flexibility, broader business powers, an expanded scope of permitted investments, and improved control rules. Mr. Knight pledged that credit unions will continue to expand services. The consumer recognizes this, and so does the federal government.
Credit unions are that network.
Mr. Knight assured consumers that given their community commitment, credit unions will continue to offer Canadians an alternative. He pointed out that that's already taking place. He cited the example of the Bank of Montreal, which is in the process of selling more than 40 branches to credit unions on the prairies right now. Credit Union Central of Canada serves as the umbrella organization for Canada's credit unions outside Quebec. Alvin Cader Thornley Fallis Communications 231-3355 Ext.