July 19, 2004 (Ottawa): Mr. Justice John H. Gomery has released his ruling concerning applications for funding to participate in the Commission of Inquiry into the Sponsorship Program and Advertising Activities. Justice Gomery notes that his authority is limited to making recommendations for funding.

On July 12, Justice Gomery granted either party or intervenor status to fifteen individuals and organizations. Following this decision on participant status, the Commission received applications for funding from: Mr. Joseph Charles Guité, the Conservative Party of Canada and, the Bloc Québécois.

Justice Gomery anticipates that the legal expenses of Mr. Guité will be met in accordance with the Treasury Board Policy on the Indemnification of and Legal Assistance for Crown Servants. This is based on the precedent that Mr. Guité received such funding in the past for his appearances before the Public Accounts Committee. If, however, legal expenses are not met, Justice Gomery recommends that they be funded in accordance with the Treasury Board policy.

In his ruling, Justice Gomery recommends limited funding for both the Conservative Party of Canada and the Bloc Québécois. Funding is recommended for: one junior and one senior lawyer, pre-hearing preparation, review of daily transcripts, necessary expenses and travel and, preparation and presentation of closing submissions. Justice Gomery adds that he "will remain open to the possibility of amending his recommendations as circumstances dictate, on application."

The complete version of the ruling on funding is available on the Commission's Web site at www.gomery.ca/en/rulingonfunding.

For further information, please contact François Perreault: (613) 230-2220, ext. 225