Opposition Launches Credibility Watch on HST
Claims made about the new Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) must not go unchallenged. The government’s promotional campaign in favour of the HST is making extravagant and unproven claims about jobs, and tax rates. However, fact remains that the majority of Ontario citizens simply can’t afford to pay $3 billion in new taxes.
When you hear promises about more jobs and tax cuts from the provincial government, please keep in mind the following facts from the Opposition’s Credibility Watch:
• The McGuinty government has raised corporate taxes by 75% since taking office. Even if the McGuinty Government followed through on the package promised in its latest legislation, the corporate taxes would still be 25% higher than when this government took office.
• This government has already introduced the largest income tax increase in history through the so-called “health tax.” This tax amounts to $15 billion since its introduction in 2004.
• More than a million new jobs have been promised this year through the 2009 budget and the so-called “tax package.” The reality is that, under this government, there has been a net loss of 32,000 jobs.
• Small business taxes have been increased by 37.5 per cent since this government came to office in 2003. Even if the new tax package were to proceed, small businesses will still be paying 12.5% more in increased taxes since the McGuinty government took office.
• Many of these promises will not come into effect until 2018. (That’s eight years and two elections from now.)
Seniors will be among Ontarians hardest hit by the Harmonized Sales Tax. Like all Ontarians, seniors will be paying eight per cent more for essential products such as electricity, home heating fuel and gasoline. Some health and fitness services will also be subject to the HST. Unfortunately, many seniors are least able to afford the increase. The Canadian Association of Retired Persons estimates 72.5% of seniors in a survey oppose Ontario and BC harmonizing their sales taxes. A typical senior couple living at home could pay up to $2,800 in new taxes under the HST.
The Official Opposition will continue to insist that there be full consultation into the HST before the provincial legislation is passed. Unfortunately, the provincial government seems intent on using its majority to force the passage of the Bill with minimum input from citizens. Considering the impact on Ontario’s businesses, individuals and families, there should be even more opportunities for comment. To date, more than 1,000 Durham Riding residents have signed petitions in opposition to the HST.
Children’s Aid Societies Face Funding Crisis
Recently, I met representatives of the Durham Children’s Aid Society to discuss a variety of issues concerning children and families in Durham Region. Funding remains their chief concern because Durham CAS faces a budget shortfall that must be addressed. Across Ontario, many Children’s Aid Societies are facing a funding crisis. The Government of Ontario must address the funding shortfalls. Since the Province sets the levels of service, the Province must address this serious issue. We must protect vulnerable children in Durham Region and throughout Ontario.
Power of Attorney Bill Goes to Second Reading
Last week, my Private Member’s Bill on preventing financial abuse of seniors and vulnerable individuals received second reading. My goal in introducing Bill 188 was to protect vulnerable people from inadvertently signing over their life savings to someone unworthy of their trust. One of the features of my Bill is a register of persons who hold Power of Attorney (POA), and a provision that POAs may be required to give an annual accounting to the Public Guardian and Trustee. The register of POAs would enable family members and friends who suspect financial abuse to find out who has been given authority over a friend or family member’s property and/or personal care. All family members should become vigilant when loved ones become dependent.
Young Activist Earns Good Citizenship Medal
A 13-year-old Richmond Hill resident who raised more than $5 million for disadvantaged children around the world is among 11 Ontarians receiving the province’s Medal for Good Citizenship. Bilaal Rajan is the youngest person to ever receive the honour. It recognizes his success as a children’s activist, environmental activist, motivational speaker, author and online radio host. Information about nominating worthy candidates for good citizenship medals and other Ontario awards is available online at www.citizenship.gov.on.ca .
Smart Consumer Calendar Available
Ontario’s popular 2010 Smart Consumer Calendar is off the presses and available free of charge. It gives not only dates for 2010, but also consumer information on topics such as gift cards, buying a vehicle, buying or selling a home, home renovations and energy contracts. The Smart Consumer Calendar is available at my Constituency Office. For further information, please call 905-697-1501 or 1-800-661-2433. We may also be reached by e-mail at john.otooleco@pc.ola.org. Collection agencies lead the top ten list of consumer complaints in 2008. They are followed by: appliances; health and fitness clubs; home furnishings; telephone/long distance; car repairs; credit reporting and energy brokers.
Kids’ Fish Art Contest
The deadline is December 18, 2009, for the Ministry of Natural Resources’ annual Kids’ Fish Art Contest. The contest is open to all students who are residents of Ontario and attending elementary or secondary school. This year’s featured species will be the rainbow trout and the lake whitefish. The winning design will be used on the 2010 Young Angler’s Licence. Prizes also include art supplies, fishing gear and savings certificates. For more information, please visit the web site, ontario.ca./fishartcontest .
