Taxation

During question period on taxation, Conservatives asked the government to remove federal fuel taxes for a year, saying rising gas, grocery and energy prices are making life unaffordable. Liberals said they are responding to global economic uncertainty and pointed to measures such as income tax cuts, benefits for seniors and families, and dental and child care programs. Conservatives also asked the government to direct the CRTC to cancel an increase in its tax on streaming services, arguing it would raise prices and affect trade with the United States; Liberals said it is not a new tax, that it applies existing rules fairly to support Canadian culture, and that broadcasting rules should reflect streaming.Written by AI from the debate. Updated .

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4 statements

Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors)

Liberal
“We listen to Canadians and understand the global economic challenges they face. We are acting responsibly by protecting seniors from fraud and keeping their social programs strong. We are also giving single seniors nearly $950 for groceries and essentials.”
  • Government answer in Question Period

    Relevance 21 of 100

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Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, we hear no common sense from the other side, and perhaps that is because they do not speak to Canadians. Over here we are hearing from Canadians regularly, and they know that Canada faces a profound global economic uncertainty right now. That is why we are responding with responsible measures, like protecting seniors from fraud and making the social programs that they rely on efficient and resilient to global shocks. For example, the groceries and essentials benefit will give single seniors almost $950 back in their pockets. This is what it means to be fiscally responsible managers, investing in the public.

Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport)

Liberal
“The Conservatives voted against programs that help Canadians afford life. This includes dental care, child care, school food, and money for families.”
  • Government answer in Question Period

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Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, perhaps the member for Hamilton East—Stoney Creek should talk to the 10,600-plus people in his riding who have accessed dental care that he and his party voted against. Perhaps he should talk to the over 20,700 families that access the Canada child benefit and the benefits that this government has put on the table to fight for affordability that he and his party consistently vote against. Whether it is child care, a national school food program or improvements in recreation facilities, the Conservatives have voted against every single measure to improve the lives of Canadians, including those in Hamilton East—Stoney Creek.

David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature)

Liberal
“This is not a new tax. Our government cut taxes for 22 million Canadians to help with the cost of living. This decision just applies existing rules fairly to protect Canadian culture.”
  • A repeated line

    “We cut taxes for 22 million Canadians.”

    Said 17 times by 12 members since April 27.

    Every time it was said
Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, let me be very clear, this is not a new tax. This is an imaginary tax, once again brought up in the House. Our government is relentlessly focused on the cost of living for Canadians. That is why we cut taxes for 22 million Canadians. This decision from the CRTC only ensures that existing rules are applied in a way that fosters fair competition. This is about protecting Canada’s distinct culture and identity, and ensuring the vitality of our cultural sectors.

David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Nature)

Liberal
“These taxes are not real. People stream shows now instead of just watching TV, and our rules need to match how people watch things today.”
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Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, again, what we are talking about here are imaginary taxes. Once again, the way that Canadians consume content over the last decade has changed entirely. People are streaming content. It is not only with broadcasters. It is important that our regulatory regime reflect that change.

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