Taxpayer stocking stuffers would save Ontarians money

Author: Jay Goldberg 2021/12/15

TORONTO, ON: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation has released a taxpayer holiday wish list for Ontario Premier Doug Ford with stocking stuffer ideas taken directly from the Progressive Conservatives’ election platform.

“When he was running for office, Ford promised to cut Ontarians’ taxes, restore fiscal responsibility to the provincial budget, and end government handouts to political parties and corporations,” said Jay Goldberg, Ontario Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. “The best gift Ford could give taxpayers this holiday season is lower taxes and keep his promises.”

1. Lay out a plan to balance the budget

Ford promised to restore fiscal responsibility to Queen’s Park. But even before the pandemic began, Ford’s spending was outpacing former premier Kathleen Wynne’s. It’s time for Ford to present a credible plan to balance the budget.

2. Cut gas taxes now

Ford promised to cut the gas excise tax by 5.7 cents per litre. As Ontarians face soaring gas prices, Ford is now promising to cut the gas tax by the end of March. But as we head into the holiday season, taxpayers can’t wait. The Ford government should immediately move to cut gas taxes.

2. End political and corporate welfare

Ford promised to end special handouts to political parties and wealthy corporations. Instead, Ontario taxpayers are giving Ontario’s political parties almost $14 million this year with no strings attached. Less than a year ago, Ford handed $300 million to the Ford Motor Company, even though the company is on the Fortune 500 list. These handouts must end.

4. Cut income taxes

Ford and his team promised to cut middle-class income taxes. The premier’s campaign promise would save Ontario taxpayers up to $850 a year. As the cost of living continues to rise, it’s time for Ford to leave more money in taxpayers’ pockets. Taxpayers want to see an income tax cut in next year’s budget.

“With just six months to go until Ontarians head to the polls, Ford still has many promises to keep,” said Goldberg. “Ontario taxpayers are watching and want the government to finally deliver.”

A Note for our Readers:

As you may know, we're working hard to stop Prime Minister Trudeau's attempt to add a 2nd carbon tax upon Canadian taxpayers. If you are against this tax, would you take a moment today to read and consider signing the petition below?

When you do, your name will be added to the growing list of tens of thousands across our country who want to tell the government that we are opposed to these new taxes. Please take a moment to read the petition below and consider signing it today.

To Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:

The federal government is introducing new fuel standard regulations to require industry to reduce the carbon content of fossil fuels. If industry can’t meet the standard, they’ll have to pay Trudeau's second carbon tax. This tax will ultimately hit already struggling families and businesses.

It’s bad enough that taxpayers are already paying for one carbon tax. Canadians certainly can’t afford a second carbon tax.

We, the undersigned, call on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to scrap plans for a second carbon tax.