May 8, 2006 Insurance

Montréal – The Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) has launched penal proceedings against Ian Bilodeau before the Court of Québec (Criminal and Penal Division) in the district of Hull.

The AMF filed one count against Mr. Bilodeau for acting, on or around February 6, 2004, as a representative in insurance of persons within the meaning of section 3 of the Act respecting the distribution of financial products and services, without being registered as such with the AMF. On February 1, 2004, Mr. Bilodeau failed to renew his registration as a representative in insurance of persons.

The AMF is seeking a fine in the amount of $1,000.

The Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) is the regulatory and oversight body for Québec's financial sector.

— 30 —

Information:

Media only:
Frédéric Alberro (514) 940-2176
Issuers, dealers, advisers and representatives: (877) 525-0337, choose option 9 for English, then 1 for industry
Consumers and investors: (877) 525-0337, choose option 9 for English, then 8 for consumers