May 19, 2010

Mike Schreiner says HST takes Ontario in the wrong direction by handing over tax policy to the federal government

Green Party of Ontario (GPO) Leader Mike Schreiner criticized the Liberal government for handing over sales tax policy to Stephen Harper and the federal government with the introduction of HST. The Green Party believes that Ontario should maintain control of the province’s sales tax policy in order to implement tax reforms that reward businesses and individuals for living a sustainable lifestyle, producing green products and services, and creating green jobs.

Joining First Nations leaders Rod Monague Jr. and Vicki Monague and MPP Garfield Dunlop at a Queen’s Park news conference, Schreiner pointed out that Premier McGuinty’s position on the First Nation’s point-of-sale exemption highlights why the HST moves Ontario in the wrong direction. Premier McGuinty has indicated that he supports an HST exemption for First Nations, but his hands are tied because HST implementation is controlled by the federal government.

The Green Party of Ontario believes the best way to create jobs we want – and need – begins with a Green Tax Cut. It’s a simple idea: If you’re someone who lives green or wants to live green, as many already do, you’ll be rewarded with lower taxes. A Green Tax Cut will provide businesses with an incentive to invest in green technologies and produce green products and services by rewarding them with lower taxes.

QUOTES

“Premier McGuinty is taking Ontario in the wrong direction with the HST by handing over sales tax policy to Stephen Harper and federal government.”

– Mike Schreiner, Leader, GPO

“The Green Party supports a point of sale tax exemption for First Nations and believes Ontario should maintain control of provincial sales tax policy in order to create incentives for green job creation.”

– Mike Schreiner, Leader, GPO

QUICK FACTS

A report by Dr. Fred Lazar, of the Schulich School of Business, suggests that HST will cost First Nations between $85 million and $120 million a year.
The HST will increase the costs of a range of products and services, including an estimated $20 million per year on bicycles.

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Contact:
Becky Smit

647-830-6486