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Results: 301 - 400 of 422
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion. The $1 billion we have invested over the past two years has allowed us to hire 100 additional—
Some hon. members: Oh, oh!
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. Our actions over the past two years make that abundantly clear. We have invested the historic amount of $1 billion, which has allowed us to hire 100 additional staff and examine four jurisdictions per year. As I said, the net is tightening.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to cracking down on tax cheats and bringing them to justice with the help of our international partners.
I am proud of the leadership role we have taken on the international stage. Co-operation between revenue authorities, including the exchange of tax information, is an essential tool for maintaining the integrity of Canada's tax base.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance, and our first two budgets proved that. We have invested nearly $1 billion to combat tax evasion and tax avoidance. We are well on our way to recovering $25 billion. Some 627 cases have been transferred to criminal investigation, and there have been 268 warrants and 78 convictions. Yes, the net is tightening. Much more—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. The proof is in the historic investments we have made, unlike our colleagues opposite. We were even told by a member who served as the minister responsible for the Canada Revenue Agency under the Conservatives that this issue was not even a priority when they were in power.
We are moving forward with our work. The net is tightening, and Canadians expect no less of us.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. Our historic $1-billion investment over the past two years is proof positive. It is unprecedented.
Our measures are bearing fruit, since we are on track to recovering $25 billion offshore. What is more, 627 cases were handed over to criminal investigations, 268 search warrants were issued, and there have been 78 convictions. The net is tightening and we will continue—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance
In our first two budgets, we invested over $1 billion, which has put us on the right track for recovering nearly $25 billion. Over the past two years, 727 cases have been transferred to criminal investigation, and there have been 268 warrants and 78 convictions.
Let me be very clear. We will continue to work and bring tax cheats to justice.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, all families should receive the benefits to which they are entitled. In my mandate letter, I committed to facilitating access to services for the neediest and most vulnerable, seniors, and single-parent families.
We will work hard to resolve the problem.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for giving me the opportunity to talk about all the hard work we have done to tackle tax evasion and tax avoidance.
Over the past two years, we have invested over $1 billion, which has put us well on our way to recovering $25 billion. In fact, 335 cases have been transferred for criminal investigation and millions of dollars in fines have been imposed, including $44 million in third-party penalties.
We will keep working for Canadians and continue to keep our promises.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, the CRA provides quality services to Canadians. It is unacceptable that some Canadians are not receiving their credits and benefits within a reasonable period of time.
Many vulnerable Canadians depend on these credits and benefits to get by, and we will redouble our efforts to make them more accessible. I would like to remind Canadians of how important it is to file their income tax return in order to receive the credits and benefits they are entitled to.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, I want to reassure my colleague that confidentiality is the Canada Revenue Agency's top priority.
I am not aware of the situation the member is referring to, but my hon. colleagues can rest assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the confidentiality of information at the Canada Revenue Agency.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of a fair housing market for all Canadians. We have increased the agency real estate audits in the Vancouver and Toronto markets. These audits found over $275 million in unreported income. We have applied over $20 million in penalties through these audits.
Let me be clear that tax evaders can no longer hide.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for giving me an opportunity to tell Canadians about the results of our crackdown on tax evasion and tax avoidance.
We have invested an unprecedented amount of money, nearly $1 billion, in tools for tackling tax fraud. Our plan is yielding results. We are about to recoup close to $25 billion from tax evaders and tax avoiders. Since we came into power two years ago, there have been 335 cases transferred to criminal investigation, $10 million in fines, $44 million in—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I was happy to receive the finance committee's recommendations. I want to thank the committee for its hard work on its study.
Since receiving the report, we have put in place regular reporting of our results. We have good results to share: 335 cases were transferred to criminal investigation, $10 million in fines were levied, and $44 million in penalties were imposed on third parties. Tax evaders have nowhere left to hide.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance.
In our last two budgets, we invested nearly $1 billion to crack down on tax cheats. Our plan is working. Last year, we announced that we would recover $13 billion. What is more, 335 cases were transferred for criminal investigation, and $10 million in fines were imposed, as were $44 million in third-party penalties. We have a tax informant program in place if anyone anywhere in the world has any information they want to give us.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, Canadians expect a fair tax system. That is what we promised during the election campaign and that is what we are doing.
In the last two budgets, we invested over $1 billion in the fight against tax evasion and tax avoidance. Those investments are bearing fruit: $13 billion in taxes owed last year will be recovered, and 335 cases are under criminal investigation, not to mention 123 search warrants, 37 convictions, $10 million in fines, $44 million in penalties—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am working hard to ensure that the agency offers quality service to Canadians and that taxpayers get their benefits as quickly as possible. We know that benefits are important to those who receive them, and we are redoubling our efforts to ensure that all Canadians receive the benefits they are entitled to. The agency continues to work in co-operation with Service Canada to reduce the risk of a potential interruption in GIS payments.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government increased investments in awareness and in the community volunteer income tax program so that Canadians, especially low-income Canadians, can get the support they need to file their tax returns. Most benefits, including the guaranteed income supplement, are based on income. Service Canada uses the information provided in individuals' tax returns to calculate how much they are entitled to.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, during the election campaign, our government chose to tackle tax evasion. In our last two budgets, we invested over $1 billion, which enabled us to recover $13 billion. Now that we have started, we will not stop.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the comprehensive response to the 25th report of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts entitled “Report 2—Income Tax Objections—Canada Revenue Agency”, one of the 2016 fall reports of the Auditor General of Canada.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2), I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 2016 report on exports of military goods from Canada and the 2016 annual report to Parliament on the administration of the Export and Import Permits Act.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged to fight tax evasion and tax havens to ensure that our tax system is fair for all Canadians. I am proud of the leadership we have shown internationally by enhancing our collaboration with international partners. We are working hard to make sure our tax system is fair.
Our government will continue to inform Canadians about our efforts to fight tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, with respect to offshore-related files, the CRA is currently conducting audits on over 820 taxpayers and criminally investigating over 20 cases of tax evasion. Information shared under tax information sharing agreements and tax treaties is yielding results. I want to make it very clear that we will ensure our tax system is fair by ferreting out tax cheats and making them pay.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Hull—Aylmer for his question.
Our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and tax avoidance. That is why we invested close to $1 billion in our last two budgets to ensure we have the tools we need tackle this problem effectively.
Preliminary results indicate that we will recover over $13 billion during the fiscal year ending March 31.
Our government is committed to cracking down on tax cheats and bringing them to justice with the help of our international partners.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the government is strongly committed to protecting the fairness of the Canadian tax system. That is why we have invested nearly $1 billion over the past two years to tackle tax evasion and tax avoidance.
Our unprecedented investments are showing real results. We recovered $13 billion last year, 122 Canadian taxpayers named in the Panama Papers are being audited, and criminal investigations of certain taxpayers are already under way.
We will have other announcements to make later today. We are working very hard, and the net is tightening.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians pay their fair share of taxes.
With respect to the small business tax deduction, I want to tell my colleague that we have not changed the tax rules. The same rules still apply.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, we will continue to support small and medium-sized businesses across the country.
I would like to remind my colleague opposite that, when his party was in power, it held consultations with partners in the business community and it kept the same provisions. The rules have not changed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as we promised the Canadian public, our government is firmly committed to fighting tax evasion and tax avoidance in order to ensure that the tax system is fair and equitable for all Canadians. In the last year we have invested $444 million—
Some hon. members: Oh, oh!
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, last year we invested $444 million and in budget 2016-17 we invested $524 million. Our investments are already producing significant results. We recovered $13 billion last year. Some 122 Canadian taxpayers named in the Panama papers are being audited, and criminal investigations of certain taxpayers are already under way—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier, the government is strongly committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. In our last two budgets, over $1 billion was invested in combatting tax evasion.
We have achieved historic success. We recovered $13 billion last year, including $1 billion through the voluntary disclosures program. One hundred and twenty-two Canadian taxpayers whose names appeared in the Panama papers are being audited. Criminal investigations are under way for taxpayers listed in the Panama papers—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as the CRA has already confirmed, a diligent search for records was conducted and all records management guidelines were followed.
The Canada Revenue Agency is the client department represented by the Department of Justice in this case, and given the different roles, the CRA retains different records.
The independent third-party review I ordered last year included an examination of thousands of records and many days of interviews. It is shameful to suggest that the examiner drew conclusions without sufficient evidence. It is not consistent with her decades of experience or her seniority—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to set the record straight.
Our government believes in tax fairness, which means that all Canadians pay their fair share and are treated fairly by the tax system. Our government came to power wholly committed to stepping up our efforts to fight tax evasion and tax avoidance internationally.
As I have said, the Canada Revenue Agency is taking this matter to court and will use every legal avenue available. That is what the government and Canadians expect. I hope I have made that clear to my colleague opposite.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Canada Revenue Agency is the client department represented by the Department of Justice in this case. Given the different roles, the CRA retains different records. The independent third-party review I ordered last year included an examination of thousands of records and numerous days of interviews.
I repeat, it is shameful to suggest that the examiner drew conclusions without sufficient evidence. It is not consistent with her decades of experience or her years of service as dean of the Dalhousie School of Law.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, Canadians know that diversity is our strength. The mandate letter is in both official languages, which are central to our history and to who we are. They are a priority for us.
After a long, open, merit-based process, Ms. Meilleur stood out as the candidate best qualified for this position. For over 30 years, Ms. Meilleur fought for francophones' right to services. She fought to protect Montfort Hospital and to ensure French-language health care services—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, cracking down on tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance is a priority for our government. We invested a historic $444 million, which has allowed us, in the first year alone, to carry out more audits, hire an additional 100 auditors, and recover $13 billion, including $1.3 billion through the voluntary disclosures program. That is just the beginning. With the additional amounts allocated in this year's budget, our second budget, we will recover even more money for Canadians next year.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will repeat what I just said because my colleague just does not get it.
Cracking down on tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance is a priority for our government. My job is to produce results. With more auditors and more audits, we recovered an extra $13 billion last year. That is what I call results. We will invest in services for Canadians. That is what we promised, and that is exactly what we are doing.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of our history and of who we are. They are a priority for us. We went through a long, open, transparent, merit-based process. Mrs. Meilleur was clearly the best candidate for the position. She defended the French language for over 30 years. She fought for the Montfort Hospital. She fought to ensure that Franco-Ontarians can get service in French in their province. She is the best person for the job.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is working extremely hard to crack down on tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance in order to ensure that the tax system is fair and equitable for all Canadians.
Last year, we created an independent panel made up of highly respected professionals who volunteered to help improve the tax system. This panel of volunteers, honest people of integrity, submitted a report that will help us to strengthen our tax rules.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am very proud of our government, which has made cracking down on tax evasion and tax avoidance a priority.
If my colleague opposite needs tangible results, he need look no further than the $13 billion that we recovered last year, including $1.3 billion through the voluntary disclosures program. That, for me, is a tangible result. We have done a lot better than the previous government, which was never able to accomplish what we have.
Some hon. members: Oh, oh!
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for the opportunity to tell Canadians that our government is fully engaged in the battle against tax evasion and tax avoidance.
That is why, in the last budget, our government invested the record amount of $444 million. In the budget we just presented, $524 million were invested. With our plan we were able to collect $13 billion last year.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to respond to my colleagues across the way and remind them that last year we invested $444 million to fight tax evasion and tax avoidance. This year, we invested $524 million. We got a good return on our investment last year because we managed to recover $13 billion, including $1.3 billion through the voluntary disclosure program. We have a plan and we have the means. It is working and we have the numbers to prove it.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that Canadians pay their fair share of taxes.
With respect to the small business tax deduction, I want to tell my colleague that we have not changed the tax rules. I would also like to remind my colleague opposite that when his party was in power consultations were held with parties from that sector and the rules were not changed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is strongly committed to combatting tax evasion and avoidance. In budget 2016, our government allocated $444 million to combatting tax evasion. In this year's budget, we allocated $524 million. We recovered $13 billion last year, including $1 billion through the Canada Revenue Agency's voluntary disclosures program.
Let me be clear. Tax evaders can no longer hide. We take this issue very seriously, and those who choose to participate in this type of scheme will suffer the consequences.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, that is an important question.
Our government increased the basic amount and the additional residency amount used in the calculation of the northern residence tax deduction. That means that eligible taxpayers who live in a prescribed zone, such as Nunavut, are entitled to $22 a day, depending on their deduction calculation.
The agency has to audit a certain number of returns every year to ensure that the taxpayers are entitled to the claims they made. I can assure the House that no one category of taxpayer is targeted during the audit selection process. We make sure that every taxpayer is treated fairly by using fair and non-discriminatory criteria.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, small businesses play a vital role in Canada. We work with all small businesses. The rules have not changed and they apply to all small businesses.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will repeat that small businesses play a vital role in Canada. I will repeat that the tax rules have not changed. These rules were brought in by the Conservatives. If the Conservatives thought that the rules were that bad, they had 10 years to change them.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, we know that middle-class Canadians pay their fair share of taxes, but some wealthy individuals participate in complex tax schemes to avoid paying their fair share. This is unacceptable. That is why the government has made historic investments in the Canada Revenue Agency, specifically, $444 million in 2016 and $524 million in 2017. Over the past year, our government has managed to recover $13 billion. We are working hard, we are living up to our commitments, and we will continue to do so.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to see that the party opposite is aligning its thinking with ours. In the last budget, which we have just tabled, we invested $524 million to continue to fight tax evasion and tax shelters. Last year, we got $13 billion with the $444 million we invested. We will continue with our work.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Canada Revenue Agency has very strict post-employment policies for employees who leave positions with the Government of Canada.
When they leave their jobs, former CRA employees must meet strict requirements. Information disclosure is prohibited by law indefinitely. CRA employees could be subject to sanctions, including fines and prison time.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for giving me the opportunity to pass a message on to Canadians.
In last year's budget, our government invested a historic $444 million. Over the past year, that money has allowed us to recover $13 billion, which will be reinvested in health care, education, and infrastructure. We will keep working for Canadians, as we promised.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned earlier, our government is very proud to have announced in its last budget a $444-million investment that enabled us to look abroad for $13 billion, including $1 billion from voluntary disclosure programs.
We have hired 100 auditors. We work on four jurisdictions per year. We will continue what we started and we will see it through.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Canada Revenue Agency has some of the most stringent post-employment rules in the entire Government of Canada.
When CRA employees leave their job, they must meet very strict conditions. Disclosing information is prohibited by law, indefinitely.
I would remind everyone that any employee or former employee of CRA who breaks those rules faces penalties and even criminal prosecution.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, it was thanks to the efforts of the Canada Revenue Agency that KPMG'S offshore tax avoidance schemes were discovered. My colleague knows full well that the KPMG case is active. We are currently in court and cannot divulge any information, as that would jeopardize our efforts.
I can assure the House that the CRA is conducting a preliminary investigation into the schemes in place in the Isle of Man. The work has begun and we will see it through, as promised during the election campaign.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am terribly pleased to be able to provide information to my colleague across the way. I can say that the agency is conducting a preliminary investigation into the offshore structures of the Isle of Man. Our investments of $444 million allowed us to hire 100 auditors last year. We managed to recover $13 billion last year. The work has begun, and we will see it through.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will repeat the information for my colleague in the back who does not seem to understand the words I am speaking.
It is thanks to the efforts of the Canada Revenue Agency that KPMG's schemes were discovered abroad. The case is currently under way. Although we cannot provide any information, I can assure the House that we are continuing the work we said we would do during the last campaign. We will continue to do what we promised to Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, last year, in our first budget, we made a historic $444 million investment. Let me make this perfectly clear: I can assure the House that tax frauds can no longer hide. We are taking this matter very seriously, and those who choose to participate in such schemes will pay the price. Canadians expect nothing less from us.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, it was the Canada Revenue Agency that discovered KPMG's offshore tax avoidance scheme. My colleague knows very well that this is an active file and that the CRA's work is before the courts. Discussing the matter would compromise our efforts.
Since some of my colleagues seem to have a short memory, I would like to remind them that, last March, the matter was reviewed by an independent third party, which found that the CRA's actions were consistent with its policies and procedures and based on the facts.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion and tax avoidance and to ensuring that our tax system is fair for all Canadians.
Over the past year, our government has recovered $13 billion thanks to our commitment to combat tax evasion. The CRA has increased its capacity for intelligence gathering and now has access to a lot more information.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the tax rules are the same for everyone. I would like to point out that the offshore tax avoidance scheme set up by KPMG was discovered thanks to the efforts of the CRA.
Let me be clear: tax evaders can no longer hide. We take this issue very seriously, and those who choose to participate in tax schemes will face consequences for their actions. Canadians expect no less.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want to point out, and my colleague knows full well, that the KPMG case is currently before the courts. We are continuing to take action against KPMG. The case is before the courts and we are going to see our measures through, as Canadians have asked us to. That is what we promised during the election campaign and that is exactly what we are going to do.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is very committed to the fight against tax evasion in order to ensure that our tax system is fair for all Canadians. Our government invested $444 million to crack down on tax havens.
I invite all Canadians who have any information in this regard to contact the Canada Revenue Agency through the informant leads program. The agency reviews all of the information submitted. I repeat: everybody must pay their fair share.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want to remind Canadians that we are working with all our international partners to combat tax evasion, because it is a global problem.
Our government is firmly committed to preserving the fairness of our tax system, and everything we do is intended to ensure that all Canadians pay their fair share.
Last year's announcement of a historic $444-million investment proves just how important this is to our government.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, Canada's middle class and those working hard to join it pay their taxes and fund programs for all Canadians, but they have had enough of those taxpayers who do not pay their fair share.
We have invested $444 million in order to prevent tax evasion and tax avoidance. We are working very hard. Before long, I will have the great pleasure to give my colleague opposite some good news.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians pay their fair share of taxes. We will continue to support small and medium-sized enterprises across Canada because we recognize the critical role they play in our economy. I want to point out that we have not changed the tax rules and that the same provisions on source of income still apply.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will repeat my answer for my colleague opposite who seems to have misunderstood.
Our government will continue to support small and medium-sized enterprises across Canada because we recognize the critical role they play in our economy. I want to point out that we have not changed the tax rules and that the same rules and the same provisions on source of income still apply.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the situation my colleague raised is troubling.
I discussed this matter today with my colleague, the Minister of Public Services and Procurement. It is important to note that Public Services and Procurement Canada is responsible for the agency's real estate and leasing needs. The agency does not deal directly with the owners of the buildings it leases.
However, I can assure the House that our government will continue to take action to ensure that all Canadians pay their fair share. That is at the core of my mandate, and I will not give up.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Auditor General for his report and I would like to say that the Canada Revenue Agency accepts the eight recommendations he proposed.
Canadians must have access to outstanding service when they contact the agency. That is a key point in my mandate letter. I made a commitment to do everything possible to provide outstanding service.
It is important to point out that an action plan to reduce processing times for objections is already being drawn up. It will be completed in early 2017.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Mississauga—Lakeshore for his important question.
Our government is more committed than ever to combatting tax evasion because we understand that all Canadians need to pay their fair share of taxes.
The $444-million investment has made it possible to implement a jurisdiction-based approach. We are examining four jurisdictions per year. We started with the Isle of Man. We are now working on Guernsey. We are looking at transactions of over $7 billion. That is just the beginning. Other jurisdictions will follow.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government has stopped reducing staff at regional tax centres.
We have reorganized our operations to ensure that we provide outstanding service and well-paid jobs for the middle class. Canadians are using online services in ever greater numbers, and we understand that the Canada Revenue Agency must modernize how it meets their needs.
Our government is committed to ensuring that Canadians across the country have access to the best possible services when they contact the Canada Revenue Agency.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, today's announcement confirms that the Canada Revenue Agency will hire more staff in addition to ensuring a strong regional presence across Canada. We will continue to work with unions and local stakeholders and assist them through this transition.
Canadians expect the agency to make informed decisions and good investments in order to provide world-class services.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, my colleague across the aisle is well aware that there have been meetings with the members concerned. I would suggest that he talk to his colleague, the member for Jonquière, who congratulated us on what we did.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, middle-class Canadians who pay their fair share have every right to be upset when wealthy taxpayers use sophisticated schemes to avoid their tax obligations.
The Government of Canada invested an unprecedented $444 million to counter what is happening offshore. We have agreements in place, our officials are working on this, and we are going to keep our promises.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians pay their fair share.
We will continue to support small and medium-sized enterprises across Canada because we recognize the critical role they play in our economy. I want to point out that we have not changed the tax rules and that the same provisions on source of income still apply.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, the Canada Revenue Agency analyzes every situation on a case-by-case basis by verifying eligibility and the small business deduction and it will continue to do so.
We are consulting our partners and the government has not proposed any changes to the current rules. We will continue to work with small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada to ensure that they understand the tax rules that apply to them.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, I am very surprised by the comments of my colleague opposite when we know that, in 2011, the Conservative Party made changes to employment insurance and was prepared to shut down the Atlantic and Gaspé regions and merge them with other areas.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, with regard to the Canada Revenue Agency's services, I can say that, with the historic $444-million investment, we have put all of the necessary measures in place to deal with people who do not pay their fair share of taxes, and we are going to keep our promise.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, middle-class Canadians have a right to be upset about the fact that some companies are not paying their fair share of taxes and wealthy taxpayers are evading their obligations. We have invested a historic amount of $444 million precisely to continue putting all the necessary measures in place to ensure that people pay their fair share of taxes and that Canadians are happy with their government.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Châteauguay—Lacolle for her question.
Canadians engaging in tax avoidance is unacceptable. Our government has redoubled its efforts to stop them. Over the past year, the Canada Revenue Agency has conducted real estate audits in British Columbia and Ontario and collected $240 million in unpaid taxes and over $12 million in penalties.
I can also report that the agency stepped up its efforts in the Vancouver area. We now have 70 auditors looking into real estate transactions in British Columbia and Ontario.
Our government is working hard to defend the interests of middle-class Canadians—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Canada Revenue Agency is currently working with tourism businesses and we will continue to enforce the law.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government understands that charitable organizations play a key role in our society, and I am committed to being responsive to the needs of this sector. Therefore, I am proud to have announced the official launch of our consultations to clarify charitable organizations' involvement in political activities.
Our government knows that it must work with this sector. That is what we promised, and that is what we will do.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government understands that middle-class Canadians are paying their fair share and that some wealthy taxpayers are evading their obligations. This must stop.
The Panama Papers issue has a global reach. In April, I instructed officials to provide me with a complete list of the Canadian taxpayers who are implicated in this. I can announce that the agency is currently conducting over 2,500 audits and that it has identified 85 taxpayers who will be subject to further review. We will continue to work on this.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, let me be very clear. Middle-class Canadians are paying their fair share, but a few taxpayers are finding ways to avoid paying what they owe, and that is unacceptable. That is why our government invested $444 million to give the CRA the best tools to combat tax evasion.
That is what we promised and that is what we will do.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance and making sure that we have a system that is fair for all Canadians.
Let me be very clear. Most middle-class Canadians pay their fair share of taxes, but a few wealthy individuals are not doing the same, and that must stop. That is why our government invested $444 million to give the CRA the best tools to combat tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is working with our international partners to address this threat, and that co-operation will continue.
We will continue to gather and share more and more data. The Canada Revenue Agency is processing the information coming out of the Bahamas in co-operation with its partners and through court orders, as needed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Laurentides—Labelle for his important question.
The Agency is sensitive to situations involving fraud. In this type of situation, the Agency usually sets up special teams to centralize the cases and ensure fair and equitable treatment. Therefore, I encourage the taxpayers affected to contact and work with the Agency.
We will work with the individuals involved to solve their problems as information comes to light. We are following this situation very closely.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the agency is investigating taxpayers who participated in KPMG's schemes. Our massive investment will help us stop the people who promote such schemes.
As my colleague knows, complex cases before the courts can encounter delays, particularly to allow time to produce evidence. The agency is doing everything it can to ensure that the case is dealt with in a timely manner.
Our government is committed to preserving the integrity of the tax system. I cannot say it enough, but the net is tightening.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the agency is currently before the courts to obtain the list of participants in KPMG's schemes. I would caution my colleague to be careful.
Budget 2016 provides the agency with the means to combat tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. As Minister of National Revenue, that is my priority and that of my government. All Canadians must respect their obligations. That is what we are working toward.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government firmly believes that all Canadians need to pay their fair share. The CRA is currently investigating the taxpayers identified in the KPMG schemes.
This matter is before the courts, so I would caution my colleague. I want to reassure all Canadians that no one can shirk their obligations.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, middle-class Canadians pay their share of taxes, but some wealthy individuals are avoiding paying their fair share. That is unacceptable and it must change.
CRA is investigating the taxpayers identified in the KPMG schemes, and the massive investment in our latest budget will help stop the organizations that create and promote such schemes for the rich.
This matter is before the courts, so I would caution the member. I want to reassure all Canadians that no one can shirk their obligations.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would remind my colleague opposite that the KPMG schemes were denounced by the Canada Revenue Agency.
Our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. We are keeping this promise through our historic $444-million investment.
We are committed to developing a fairer tax system for Canadians. That is what we promised we would do, and that is what we are doing.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
moved that the bill be concurred in.
The Speaker: Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Some hon. members: Agreed.
An hon. member: On division.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want Canadians to know that all allegations of misconduct on the part of agency employees are taken very seriously and are systematically investigated.
My colleague across the aisle knows very well that I cannot comment on any matter that is currently under police investigation. However, all agency employees are expected to adhere to a rigorous code of integrity and professional conduct at all times.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes how important it is to combat tax evasion and international tax avoidance, as indicated in our election platform and my mandate letter.
Regarding the Panama papers in particular, I instructed my officials to get the list. We now have it. This is a problem of global proportions. We are taking a close look at all the data we have today and will do the same with the data still to come.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, in my response to a question from the member for New Westminster—Burnaby on May 9, 2016, my remarks may have been inadvertently inaccurate. I would like to correct them.
In my original response I was referring to legal procedures and ongoing civil court actions launched by the Canada Revenue Agency relating to the KPMG case.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, middle-class Canadians pay their fair share of taxes, but certain wealthy individuals are not doing the same. What I want to tell my colleague opposite is that criminal proceedings are underway and it is not right to misinform the public.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned, in its election platform, our government promised to crack down on tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. These cases are currently underway, so I do not know what my colleague does not understand.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question.
The safety and well-being of the people affected by the forest fires in Alberta are our top priority.
That is why the CRA immediately stopped all collections and all audit activities, cancelled all penalties and interest for those who are unable to file their tax returns or pay amounts owing. It is working with Canada Post to ensure that taxpayers expecting a tax refund or a benefit payment have secure access to their mail.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to respond to my colleague. Over the past 20 years, they completely destroyed the economy in remote regions like the Gaspé. I am very pleased that the 40 MPs from Quebec will work for Canada to represent the regions and develop Canada's economy.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes that international tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance are critical issues.
With regard to the Panama papers, I asked employees in my department to obtain the list of Canadian taxpayers, and I am pleased to inform the House that that information is now in the agency's hands. This is a worldwide issue and Canada is working with the international community.
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