British Columbians Endorse Tax Equality
Author:
Tanis Fiss
2002/07/02
VICTORIA: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) today responded to the announcement of the BC Treaty Referendum results.
One of the myths circulating about native tax exemptions is that such exemptions are either a constitutional right or an issue that can only be dealt with by the federal government. "The majority 'yes' vote on question eight sends a clear message to the provincial and federal governments that taxes in British Columbia - and Canada - should be based on income, meaning if people do not pay taxes it should be because they are too poor to pay not because of their ancestry," said Tanis Fiss, Director of the CTF's new Centre for Aboriginal Policy Change. "All Canadians need and deserve tax relief and tax reform, but such policies must be based on the principles of fairness and equality," added Fiss.
(Question Eight) asked British Columbians whether the existing tax exemptions for aboriginal people should be phased out.
All eight questions of the referendum were endorsed with 'yes' votes by over 750,000 British Columbians. "The referendum was never about racism or rights; it was about a political bargaining position for the provincial government. The 'yes' votes received today will give provincial negotiators a set of principles to take to the bargaining table. This will bring clarity and help facilitate the process," added Fiss.
"The referendum gave the citizens of BC a chance to vote directly on the issue of treaty principles. British Columbians needed their voices to be heard. After all, any finalized treaty will affect the citizens of this province for generations and the bills are paid by all taxpayers," Fiss stated.
Fiss continued, "One of the most positive outcomes of the referendum was that it spurred debate and a greater awareness of treaty negotiations and aboriginal rights."
The Centre for Aboriginal Policy Change is under the auspices of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. The Federation is a non-profit, non-partisan advocacy organization that receives support through voluntary non-receiptable contributions.