Chatham, Ontario – Chatham-Kent-Essex Member of Parliament Dave Van Kesteren said the Conservative Government has given Canadians even more reasons to celebrate Canada Day 2006, with significant tax reductions and incentives that take effect July 1st.

“Starting Canada Day, Canadians will see one of the largest tax cuts in the country’s history when the GST goes from 7 percent down to 6 percent,” said Van Kesteren. “An election promise was delivered on and $9 billion will be put in the pockets of Canadians over the next two years. Both are worth celebrating.”

Canada Day also marks the introduction of the Universal Childcare Benefit – $1,200 per year for each child under six – to help families cope with the cost of child care. In addition, the Canada Employment Credit comes into effect which will help working Canadians cover the costs of work-related expenses.

“Working families in Chatham-Kent-Essex will get a break both at home for the costs of raising children and at work,” said Van Kesteren. “Giving individuals and families more of their own money back just makes sense because they know how best to spend it.”

Also being introduced on Canada Day is a tax credit on the cost of transit passes. “This will not only save Canadians money, but it is part of the Conservative Government’s environmental plan to reduce greenhouse gases, improve the quality of the air we breathe and reduce traffic congestion,” said Van Kesteren.

All four tax relief measures were promised in the Conservative Party’s 2006 Election Platform and passed in Budget 2006.
 
For more information, please contact: Office of Dave Van Kesteren, M.P. - (613) 992-2612