Although his statement was billed as an economic and fiscal update, federal Finance Minister Ralph Goodale spoke yesterday as if he was delivering a political manifesto. He talked about making sure that Canadians "enjoy a quality of life second to none." Goodale's rhetoric was impressive. He talked about a new growth and prosperity agenda for the country, about promoting innovation and improving public infrastructure.

Voters will have much to consider when they go to the polls. Obviously, the sponsorship scandal will be uppermost in the minds of many Canadians. But [Paul Martin] - as well as the Tories, NDP and Bloc Quebecois - needs to understand that Canadians believe social issues such as health and education, and the state of the economy, are more important than the scandals. A new poll conducted for the Star, released yesterday, indicated only 17 per cent say ethics and accountability are the most important issue.