The Department of Finance today released the Canada Investment and Savings’ Retail Debt Plan for 2001-2002.

With the government’s commitment to balanced budgets in 2001-2003, CI&S’s mandate is to deliver a creative and cost-effective retail debt program that provides value to Canadians and contributes to a diversified investor base. As well, it aims to ensure that Canadians are aware of and have access to Government of Canada securities.

This year CI&S will focus on developing or extending initiatives that improve service delivery for customers while being cost effective for the government. It is introducing Internet sales. Beginning in October, Canadians will be able to buy Canada Savings Bonds and Canada Premium Bonds directly from the government at: www.csb.gc.ca

The online payroll deduction program will be expanded, and telephone sales will be continued. The pilot project for selling both CSBs and CPBs for six-months between October and April 1 each year will become a permanent feature of the annual sales campaign. CI&S will again promote its products to youth.