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Results: 101 - 200 of 484
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, there was no shortage of fearmongering in Gaspé and the Magdalen Islands in 2011 when the Harper Conservatives brought in their EI reform.
The Maritimes and eastern Quebec were terrified. The Harper Conservatives and today's Conservatives are doing exactly the same thing. In the coming months, we are going to see two categories of promises: one for Quebec and one for western Canada. Divide and conquer is their motto. I encourage them to make “Chop, chop, chop” their next campaign slogan.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, had the Conservatives done their homework during the 10 years they were in power, they probably would now have a better understanding of how things work at the Canada Revenue Agency.
The federal government, representing nine provinces and three territories, harmonized its definition of “income”, while Quebec has retained a different definition.
Do we ask the provinces and territories to harmonize their system with Quebec's or do we try to require Quebec to harmonize its system with that of the rest of Canada? We will continue to work with our colleagues—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, again, we see that the Conservatives are playing petty politics making empty promises they have no intention of keeping.
The CRA employs more than 5,500 employees throughout Quebec and is a major economic driver in towns like Shawinigan and Jonquière. Unlike the Conservatives, we will not put these jobs in jeopardy. That said, we are always prepared to work with Revenu Québec to make it easier to file tax returns in Quebec.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, what Quebeckers will remember when the next election rolls around is the “chop, chop, chop” of the Conservatives' axe falling during the 10 years they were in power.
Here is what we have done over the past three years. We have invested in the Canada Revenue Agency and its call centres, simplified tax returns, invested in community volunteer programs, and encouraged low-income non-filers to file a return. We are working for Canadians and Quebeckers.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Harper Conservatives had 10 years to help Canadians and Quebeckers when it comes to filing their tax returns. What did they do? They cut services and staff without evaluating the consequences. Chop, chop, chop.
We on this side will continue to invest in services in order to really improve the lives of all Quebeckers and Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, it is ironic that the Conservatives, who claim to be great champions of spending cuts, are also saying that they are prepared to pay more for work that the CRA is already doing. Quebec and Canada do not have the same definition of revenue.
What is the Conservatives' real plan? Are they asking Quebeckers to harmonize with the rest of Canada, or are they asking the rest of Canada and the provinces to adopt Quebec's definition?
I wonder if they will say the same thing in Toronto and Calgary. On this side of the House, we will continue to invest in Canadians and Quebeckers.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the Harper Conservatives or today's Conservatives, it is all the same. In the next few months, the Conservatives will be making two sets of promises: one for Quebec and one for the rest of Canada
Divide and conquer. That is the same tactic they used in 2015. With respect to the single tax return, I would invite my Conservative colleagues to follow the NDP's lead and do their homework—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, once again, the Conservatives are stooping to petty politics by making empty promises they have absolutely no intention of keeping.
The Canada Revenue Agency employs over 5,500 people in Quebec. It is an economic driver in places like Shawinigan, Gaspé, Rimouski, Quebec City and Montreal.
Our employees are bilingual and capable of serving all Canadians. We will be here and we will keep working—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, it is quite something to listen to the Conservatives, who were in power for 10 years and unable to figure out how the Canada Revenue Agency works.
I can say that we have put in place programs to address tax evasion, unlike the Conservatives who do not want to get in the way of their rich friends.
We have invested $1 billion and hired 1,300 auditors. We have put everything in place to deal with tax evasion and we will continue to work—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, while the Conservatives are making unrealistic promises, I am pleased to tell my colleague and any Canadians who may be listening to us what the Canada Revenue Agency is doing to make life easier for Quebeckers and Canadians.
We have invested in our call centres, we have simplified tax returns, we have invested in volunteer community programs, we have encouraged low-income non-filers to file their returns, all so that more Canadians can get the money they are owed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the CRA employs more than 5,500 people throughout Quebec and is a major economic driver in towns such as Shawinigan and Jonquière.
Unlike the Bloc Québécois and the Conservatives, we are not jeopardizing those jobs. That said, we remain open to working with Revenu Québec to make it easier for Quebeckers to file their tax returns.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, combatting international tax evasion is a priority for our government, as it is for Quebeckers.
Information exchange agreements with our international partners remain essential to tackling international tax evasion. A single revenue administration managed by Quebec would make it harder for Canada to respect its international legal obligations. It could also cause problems when it comes to ratifying international agreements. Quebec is simply not properly equipped to combat international tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the report by the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada confirms that the ill-considered cuts to the agency by the Harper government had devastating consequences.
Thanks to investments of more than $1 billion in the fight against tax evasion, our government has given the agency the resources it needed. Under our leadership, it hired 1,300 new auditors. We have done twice as many audits in three years as the Harper government did in 10 years.
Our plan is working and we are starting to see the results.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, in our last three budgets, we invested over $1 billion to give the Canada Revenue Agency the tools it needs to go after tax cheats.
With respect to the Panama papers, the CRA identified over 3,000 offshore entities associated with over 2,600 beneficial owners that have some link to Canada. The CRA has risk assessed over 80% of them. We also chose to tighten the rules for the voluntary disclosures program. The net is tightening.
An hon. member: Oh, oh!
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, my colleague is attempting to connect me indirectly to the paradise papers. If he wants to play that game, I suggest he look at his own people. Mr. Singh and Mr. Mulcair, as well as the members for Timmins—James Bay and Skeena—Bulkley Valley, all accepted contributions from an individual named in those data leaks. For my part, I will keep doing what we do best, which is work to put a stop to tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, these are important opportunities to discuss how we can create jobs and economic growth in every sector across the country.
The discussions will focus on trade diversification, competitiveness, and how climate change and clean energy initiatives stimulate growth.
The agenda will include a discussion on the oil industry and the impact the drop in oil prices is having on our energy sector and its workers. We will always support that sector and its workers.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, each case of misconduct is unacceptable and in no way reflects the professionalism of the tens of thousands of CRA employees who do good work every day.
The CRA has some of the strictest employee conduct rules in the Government of Canada, and we continue to improve on them.
I can confirm that the individual in question is no longer employed at the CRA. He worked there when the Conservatives were in power, I should point out.
Since this case is currently before the courts, I cannot give—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, each case of misconduct is unacceptable and in no way reflects the professionalism of the tens of thousands of CRA employees.
Our government has strengthened CRA surveillance technology by investing $10 million to implement solutions for business management errors.
Our investments are paying off. The increase in the number of privacy breaches that have been reported is directly tied to the CRA's ability to detect unauthorized access. All allegations of misconduct are taken seriously and systematically investigated.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, every case of misconduct is unacceptable and in no way reflects the professionalism of the tens of thousands of employees at the Canada Revenue Agency.
I am very pleased that our government has invested more than $10 million, something the Conservatives across the way did not do when they were in government. Imagine all the cases that went undetected under their government.
We are taking this information very seriously. Protecting Canadians' privacy is a priority of the Canada Revenue Agency.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, again, for my colleague's information, the government has invested $10 million for the public's protection and safety. We will not be like the government of the people across the way who kept their heads in the sand for 10 years.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government has chosen to invest in a fair and equitable tax system that meets the needs of all Canadians. I have no lessons to learn from the Conservatives. The Harper government cut jobs and training and never invested in services. We have appointed a chief service officer in order to provide the best service to the public. She will use a client-centred approach.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Madam Speaker, my colleague opposite is comparing apples and oranges. Fighting tax evasion, especially abroad, is a priority for our government, as is service to Canadians. The Conservatives are in no position to lecture this side of the House considering the cuts made to the Canada Revenue Agency when they were in power.
We are working on it. People will receive the credits and benefits to which they are entitled.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
moved that Bill C-76, an act to amend the Canada Elections Act and other acts and to make certain consequential amendments, be read the third time and passed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question.
Since 2015, we have introduced a number of initiatives to improve the CRA's services, but we recognize that we can do more. The chief service officer will be responsible for leading the transformation of CRA's service culture using a client-centred, integrated approach.
My top priority is to improve the CRA's services to Canadians, including the people of Scarborough North, so that they are treated as important clients, worthy of respect.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Brossard—Saint-Lambert for her excellent question.
Our government committed to ensuring that Canadians have access to secure and convenient online electronic tax filing services, and that is exactly what we are doing.
I am proud to announce that the Canada Revenue Agency and Tax-Filer Empowerment Canada have signed a joint digital services collaboration plan. The plan will enable us to improve our services, especially for people in remote regions, by providing innovative digital services that are easier to use.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of charities in Canadian society. The government identified a number of errors of law in the decision and will appeal in order to clear up any uncertainty created and seek clarification on these important matters of law. The resolution of these legal issues will not in any way affect the political approach our government intends to take regarding quantitative restrictions on political activities.
I cannot comment any further since this matter is before the courts.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of the activities carried out by charities, which play a key role in our society. That is why we ended the political activities audit program created by the Harper government. The draft legislative proposals aim to allow charities to pursue their charitable purposes by engaging in non-partisan political activities and in the development of public policy. Charities will still be required to have a charitable purpose, and restrictions against partisan political activities will remain in place.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is steadfast in its commitment to keeping Canadians and our borders safe.
The minister apologized for any confusion he may have caused. Contrary to what fearmongering Conservatives would have everyone believe, on our watch, the number of applications processed over the past year has gone up by 50%. Most of the people who arrived last year are waiting for their claims to be processed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
moved that Bill C-77, an act to amend the National Defence Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other acts, be read the second time and referred to a committee.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government sympathizes with Canadians who have lost money or personal information to fraudsters targeting taxpayers.
The Canada Revenue Agency has provided detailed information to help Canadians recognize scam emails and calls and protect themselves against fraud. Every time we hold a prevention or information session, we let Canadians know that the CRA never demands payment over the phone.
I urge all victims of fraud to file a report with the Department of Public Safety.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Harper Conservatives, we make evidence-based decisions. The data show that the number of border crossers intercepted is lower than it was last year.
The Harper Conservatives continue to politicize the issue by fearmongering and spreading false information. That is difficult to understand, since they are the ones who left us with a chronically underfunded asylum system with extremely long wait times.
Our government will continue to enforce Canada's immigration laws.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, we do have a plan. Our government is working with provincial and municipal governments to manage the asylum claims compassionately and in accordance with international law and Canada's humanitarian values.
When the Conservatives were in power, they cut almost $400 million from the Canada Border Services Agency's budget. That is not the right approach. We do not need any lectures from the Conservatives.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the commissioner's report states there was no preferential treatment given. We cannot say the same about the conduct of the member for Haldimand—Norfolk who, when in cabinet, gave preferential treatment by funding a project connected with the Conservative Party after her own department had ruled it was ineligible for federal funding.
The Conservatives are in no position to lecture our government.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as the commissioner indicated in his report, no preferential treatment was given in this case. However, since the Conservatives have a short memory, I will remind my colleague opposite that Prime Minister Harper's chief of staff was found guilty by the commissioner after writing a personal cheque for $90,000 to a senator to try to hide their corruption.
Our government does not need any lectures from the members opposite.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, despite all of the opposition leader's efforts to hide it, the Conservatives clearly do not support Canadian dairy producers and our supply management system.
Our government is proudly united in protecting and defending our dairy producers, unlike the member for Beauce, who reiterated his call to put an end to supply management by describing our hard-working dairy producers as dishonest millionaires.
Unlike the Conservatives, our government fully supports Canadian dairy farmers and our supply management system.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, in contrast to the members opposite who want to get rid of supply management, the Liberal government created supply management. We will continue to defend it, as we will defend the interests of Canadian farm families and all our dairy producers.
The Prime Minister, the Minister of Agriculture, the caucus, the Quebec caucus—in short, everyone—is behind supply management. We created the system, and we will defend it.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind my colleague that all of these events happened under the Harper government. Currently, there is no problem with the CRA's board of management. The rules are being followed, and everything is in order.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague for giving me this opportunity to acknowledge all the hard work being done by the 41 Liberal members from Quebec on the issues that matter to Quebeckers.
These 41 Liberal members can speak with authority on our concrete action and investment for the middle class in areas like infrastructure, housing, research and development, remote regions, small craft harbours, and broadband networks. Quebec is proud of its 41 MPs.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the important role that small businesses play in creating jobs and growing the middle class.
With respect to the small business tax deduction, I want to point out that we have not changed the tax rules and that the same rules still apply. Of the over 20,000 small and medium-sized businesses reviewed by the CRA, fewer than 20 businesses classified as recreational vehicle parks and recreational camps were denied the deduction.
I would like to remind my colleague opposite that, when his party was in power, consultations were held with sector partners and his government decided not to make any changes.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is improving the services provided by the Canada Revenue Agency to make it easier for Canadians to file their taxes and give them access to the benefits they are entitled to. Our government is concerned when someone does not receive his or her benefits. This is why the CRA has implemented measures to improve services to the public. I urge anyone who is not receiving the guaranteed income supplement to contact the Canada Revenue Agency.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, we recognize that the Canadians affected by the wildfires, particularly in British Columbia, are facing challenges, and the Canada Revenue Agency is committed to helping ease their burden.
The CRA provides taxpayer relief in the event of natural disasters, such as the B.C. wildfires. Every application for taxpayer relief is examined individually.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, my colleague's rhetoric does not match reality. I invite him to reread the last three budgets. It has always been made clear that our investments cover a five-year period, to ensure that we can combat tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance strategically and over the long term. We are not going on a spending spree, we are making smart, targeted investments. So far, over $100 million from the 2016 and 2017 budgets has gone to support this important fight against tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would invite my colleague to try again. The general anti-avoidance rule committee provides advice on how to enforce the legislation. It is an ad hoc committee that has the expertise to handle complex cases. Only the NDP likes to spend for the sake of spending. There is nothing wrong with having a committee requiring no additional funding. Our government's position is clear. We are giving the CRA the necessary resources to target tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the CRA takes the protection of Canadians' tax information very seriously because the trust of individuals and businesses is the cornerstone of Canada's tax system.
The vast majority of breaches reported were the result of misdirected mail. The CRA is one of the government’s largest service organizations, with more than 40,000 employees. It thoroughly investigates all security breaches and possible breaches of confidentiality of taxpayer information and takes appropriate action.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, had my colleague opposite listened carefully to my answer, he would know that I did not blame Canada Post.
What I said was that the agency takes the protection of Canadians' tax information very seriously because the trust of individuals is the cornerstone of Canada's tax system. The vast majority of breaches reported were the result of misdirected mail. The agency is one of the largest service organizations, with more than 40,000 employees. It thoroughly investigates all security breaches and possible breaches of confidentiality, and takes appropriate action.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I have said, the agency takes the protection of Canadians' tax information very seriously because the trust of individuals and businesses is the cornerstone of Canada's tax system. The vast majority of breaches reported were the result of misdirected mail. The agency is one of the government’s largest service organizations, with more than 40,000 employees. It thoroughly investigates all security breaches and possible breaches of confidentiality of taxpayer information. We will take appropriate action.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Laval—Les Îles for his ongoing support for vulnerable Canadians. Our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians receive the tax credits and benefits to which they are entitled. That is why budget 2018 doubles the funding for the community volunteer income tax program so that we can provide even more support for volunteers year round. This program provides much-needed assistance to low-income Canadians by providing a free tax return preparation service. I would like to sincerely thank all of the volunteers who are participating this year.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, fighting tax evasion, especially abroad, is a priority for our government.
Budget 2018 provides for nearly $200 million in new investments to help us go even further, specifically by making legislative changes that will close the tax loopholes used by multinationals.
I would also like to remind the House that we adhere to all provisions of the international standard for automatic exchange of information with OECD partners. Starting this year, we will have access to millions of records from other jurisdictions that will help us to combat tax evasion and tax avoidance.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to ensuring that the CRA treats Canadians as important clients and not just as taxpayers.
The CRA undertakes a review of all court decisions in order to ensure that its programs and services are held to the highest standard. I would like to remind my colleague that this case began in 2008, under the previous Conservative government. The criminal investigations program has since been transformed to focus on the most serious cases of tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government promised to crack down on tax evasion. We are working with our international partners to fight tax evasion abroad by improving the exchange of information and improving our practices.
That collaboration is why I was at the OECD three weeks ago. I announced that Canada will host a Large Business and International Programme meeting of tax experts from around the world this fall. Information exchange is crucial to successfully fighting tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want to make it clear that the OECD has recognized Canada's leadership in using data to assess the risk of multinational corporations.
Canada is making sure that multinationals pay their fair share of taxes. One of the ways we are doing that is by playing a leadership role with the Large Business and International Programme. Country-by-country reporting also gives us easier access to some kinds of information about multinationals. Every year, we assess the risk associated with all large corporations' tax returns.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Lac-Saint-Jean for being a strong voice for the regions of Quebec.
In the past two years, we have done quite a lot to fight those who avoid paying their fair share of taxes. In fact, the revised voluntary disclosures program goes into effect today in order to limit the abuse of its use by major accounting firms.
Budget 2018 provides nearly $100 million in new investments. We also announced that we are closing tax loopholes used by multinationals. The net is tightening.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I was at the OECD last week.
Our government is committed to ensuring that the tax system is fair for all Canadians. We are working with our international partners to fight tax evasion abroad by improving the exchange of information and improving these practices.
In the context of this collaboration, I was at the OECD last week, as I mentioned, and I announced that Canada will host a Large Business and International Programme meeting of tax experts from around the world.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, access to data is key in the fight against tax evasion, and we are making considerable progress in that regard thanks to our investments.
Through collaboration with our international partners, the Canada Revenue Agency now has access to better data, and, this year, the introduction of the common reporting standard has enabled us to more easily access information on the bank accounts of Canadians living abroad. This new standard will allow Canada and nearly 100 other countries to share data, something that was completely unheard of three or four years ago.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will be clear: fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance is a priority for our government.
We are working closely with our international partners because this is a global problem with no simple solution, contrary to what my colleagues opposite seem to think. We adhere to all provisions of the international standard for automatic exchange of information with OECD partners. Starting this year, we will have access to even more information supplied by our partners. I remind my colleagues opposite that under their government, former minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn announced publicly that this was not a priority.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. After all, it was our government that invested nearly $1 billion in the last two budgets.
The Canada Revenue Agency is now able to assess the risk of all large multinational corporations annually. Every year, it reviews every transaction over $10,000 in four regions that are deemed high-risk. The first two are the Isle of Man and Guernsey.
As far as offshore compliance is concerned, as of December 31, 2017, the CRA had audited more than 1,090 taxpayers—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, tax evasion and tax avoidance are priorities for this government, which is why we invested over $1 billion in our last two budgets. That is in contrast to our opposition colleagues, whose goal in life is to ask two questions during question period and then wither away on the opposition benches.
Members on this side are going to work for Quebeckers and Canadians. Tax avoidance is a priority for us, and we will continue to work on that.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to apologize to my colleague from Joliette. I am well aware that all members have the right to properly represent their ridings.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, fighting the abuse of tax havens is an important issue for our government. In the last two budgets, our government invested nearly $1 billion to fight tax evasion.
We also decided to tighten the rules for the voluntary disclosures program so that any individuals identified through information leaks do not have access to that program. Instead of accepting an immunity agreement, we believe these people need to face the full consequences of the law.
The Canada Revenue Agency continues to review links to Canadian entities and will take appropriate action to ensure that everyone pays their fair share of taxes.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion, and we will do a lot more about that than the Bloc Québécois could ever do for the regions of Quebec. That is why we invested nearly $1 billion.
The CRA now has the resources it needs to assess the risk associated with all major multinationals. Every year, we review every transaction over $10,000 in four regions.
As far as offshore compliance is concerned, on December 31, 2017, the CRA audited 1,090 taxpayers and launched criminal investigations—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, the government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. That is why in our last two budgets we invested nearly $1 billion in doing just that. I can say that the Canada Revenue Agency is now able to assess the risk of all large multinationals each year. Every year the agency reviews every transaction over $10,000 in four regions that are deemed high-risk. The first two are the Isle of Man and Guernsey.
Tax cheats can no longer hide.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, let me be clear: fighting tax evasion and tax avoidance is a priority for our government. We are working closely with our international partners because this is a global problem with no simple solution, contrary to what my colleagues opposite seem to think.
We adhere to all provisions of the international standard for automatic exchange of information with OECD partners. Starting this year, we will have access to even more information supplied by our partners.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. That is why we invested nearly $1 billion in our last two budgets. The Canada Revenue Agency is now able to assess the risk of all large multinational corporations each year. Every year, it reviews every transaction over $10,000 in four regions that are deemed high-risk. The first two are the Isle of Man and Guernsey.
As far as offshore compliance is concerned, on December 31, 2017, the CRA audited 1,090 taxpayers and launched criminal investigations in nearly 42 cases of tax evasion.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government ensures that it fully meets Canadians' expectations by relying on the vital support of a world-class public service.
The former Conservative government chose to let the quality of services to Canadians drop by handing out bonuses for cutting jobs. We believe, however, that executive performance measures must reflect government priorities to better serve Canadians. That means healthier, more diverse, and more inclusive work places. Executives do not receive bonuses if they do not meet the objectives established in accordance with the rules—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my esteemed Acadian colleague from Madawaska—Restigouche for his question and for the work that he does in our regions.
Improving the CRA's service is a key part of my mandate. That is why, this year, we are making things easier for people who use paper returns by sending them all the forms they need directly by mail. What is more, we are launching a service called “file my return”, which will allow eligible Canadians to file their tax returns by answering a few simple questions via an automated telephone service.
I encourage all Canadians to file their tax returns if they want to get the credits they are entitled to.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance abroad to ensure that we have a system that is fair for all Canadians. This is a global issue, and that is why Canada is working closely with its international partners, including the OECD, to improve the exchange of information.
As a result of the investments in the last two budgets, the agency is now in a position to carry out an annual assessment of the risks related to activities of major multinationals.
As my colleague knows very well, I cannot comment on specific cases.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance abroad to ensure that we have a system that is fair for all Canadians. This is a global issue, and that is why Canada is working closely with its international partners, including the OECD, to improve the exchange of information. As a result of the investments in the last two budgets, the agency is now in a position to carry out an annual assessment of the risks related to activities of major multinationals. As my colleague knows very well, I cannot comment on specific cases.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, combatting tax evasion is a priority for our government. We have a full-time team dedicated to investigating the wealthiest members of society, while another team is dedicated to offshore compliance.
As of December 31, 2017, 150 taxpayers connected to the Panama papers had been identified for audit. I chose to tighten the rules for the voluntary disclosures program so that any taxpayers identified through information leaks, such as the Panama papers, do not have access to that program.
These individuals must face the full consequences of their actions.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is firmly committed to combatting tax evasion and tax avoidance. That is why in our last two budgets we invested nearly $1 billion in doing just that.
The Canada Revenue Agency is now able to assess the risk of all large multinational corporations each year. This year it is reviewing every transaction over $10,000 in four regions that are deemed high-risk. The first two are the Isle of Man and Guernsey. As far as offshore compliance is concerned, on December 31, 2017, the Agency audited 1,090 taxpayers and launched criminal investigations—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I have a few more remarks I would like to make regarding the question of privilege raised by my colleague, the member for Calgary Rocky Ridge.
The member referred to recent articles and believes that they contradict the statement I made to the effect that the eligibility criteria for the disability tax credit have not changed. Accordingly, he is accusing me of knowingly misleading this House.
I stand by my previous statement. The eligibility criteria for this tax credit, as defined in paragraph 118.3(1)(a.1) of the Income Tax Act, have not changed.
My colleague's question of privilege has more to do with the letter of clarification that the Canada Revenue Agency started sending out in May to communicate with health care professionals in cases where agents require more information to complete a file.
It is very important to me that this issue be resolved today, not only to clarify the matter here in the House, but also to ensure that Canadians have accurate information on the disability tax credit for the benefit of those who apply for it.
The letter of clarification sent by the agency sought to clarify the interpretation of the information relative to the 14-hour rule set out in the legislation. The purpose of the letter was never to change an eligibility criterion. However, it became obvious that the clarification letter had an unintended consequence with respect to the assessment of the claims. That is why I announced on Friday that the agency would immediately stop using the content of the May clarification letter and would resume using the previous letter. The agency will also reassess the claims that were denied during that period.
In order to ensure that the agency's administrative changes help improve our service, I also announced the return of the disability advisory committee. From now on, the views of Canadians with disabilities will be an integral part of the agency's decision-making process.
Although I stand by my previous comments that no changes were made to the eligibility criteria, I will admit that the agency's efforts to clarify the criteria had unintended consequences. For that, I offer my most sincere apologies.
I am convinced that, thanks to the announcement we made last week, the agency's decisions will be better informed. The committee will play a key role in the administration of tax credits for persons with disabilities and its recommendations will be made public.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I read the Auditor General's report, and I support all his recommendations.
In our very first budget, we invested $50 million in the CRA's call centres. We have already started hiring more agents to respond to more Canadians. We already have an action plan that focuses on modernizing our telephone platform, improving training, and updating our service standards.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I just reiterated, I have read the Auditor General's report and completely agree with all his recommendations.
In our first budget, we invested over $50 million in our call centres, which had been neglected for over 20 years. We hired more agents. We have an action plan in place. We want a more modern telephone platform that can meet our clients' needs. We are going to give training to the people who work in our call centres. We are going to create service standards that will meet Canadians'—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. The revenue agency has a very effective recovery process, which was strengthened by our investments of close to $1 billion. We now have the tools needed to effectively combat tax cheats. We are on track to recoup $25 billion as a result of audits conducted over the past two years. Every company and individual affected was notified of the changes to these audits, and new notices of assessment were sent out as needed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as my colleague knows very well, I will not comment on a specific case, not today, not tomorrow, not ever. The law prohibits me from doing so. However, I can assure my colleague that no one is interfering with agency audits. As long as I am the Minister of National Revenue, that will never happen. Let me be clear: no one is above the law.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to reassure all Canadians who receive the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed. That being said, I am always open to hearing the concerns of all Canadians. If changes to Revenue Canada's procedures are needed, we will have that conversation with the experts who will be part of the committee that I will be making an announcement about tomorrow. We will ensure fairness for all recipients of the disability tax credit regardless of their disability.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. Over the past two years, the government has invested nearly $1 billion to cracking down on tax evasion and tax avoidance. The Canada Revenue Agency levied more than $44 million in third-party penalties last year, and there are presently a number of criminal cases under way. The CRA has a full-time dedicated unit focused on offshore non-compliance, and this unit reviews money transfers over $10,000 that cross borders to and from Canada. In the past two years alone, the CRA has received information on more than $28 million in money transfers—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleague to repeat the same thing outside the House after question period. I invite him to tell me that I did not respect my diabetic husband, whom I stood by until his final days. I invite him to tell me that I disrespected all my clients when I was a social worker.
I am extremely sensitive to the challenges facing people with diabetes. As minister, my role is to make fair and equitable decisions for everyone.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to reassure all Canadians who receive the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed.
That being said, I am always willing to listen to the concerns of Canadians from all walks of life. That is why, on November 23, I reinstated the disability advisory committee. If changes must be made to the agency's process, we will discuss them with the experts who sit on this committee. We will make those changes in a way that is fair to all recipients of the disability tax credit.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as I just mentioned, I want to reassure all Canadians who receive the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as a social worker and now as minister, I have always worked on behalf of the most vulnerable.
That is why we have taken steps to make this tax credit more accessible. We simplified the application forms and are allowing specialized nurse practitioners to fill out their patients' forms. Anyone who wishes to dispute the agency's decisions can do so by providing new medical information and requesting a review or appeal of a decision.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, we recognize that all forms of physical or mental disability can have a significant impact on the daily lives of the people affected, their families, and their environment.
That is why, last year, the government invested more than $41 million in diabetes research. That is why, in budget 2017, we invested $5 billion in youth mental health. That is also why, on November 23, I reinstated the disability advisory committee.
We continue to work for the most vulnerable Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I would like to reassure all Canadians who receive the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed. That being said, I am always willing to listen to the concerns of Canadians from all walks of life, and that is why, on November 23, I announced the reinstatement of the disability advisory committee. If changes need to be made to the agency's way of doing things, we will discuss them with the experts who sit on this committee. We will make those changes in a way that is fair to all recipients of the disability tax credit, regardless of their disability.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
As a social worker and as Minister of National Revenue, I have always worked on behalf of the most vulnerable people. For that reason, we have taken steps to make these credits more accessible, including shortening the application form and allowing specialized nurse practitioners to fill out their patients' forms. Anyone who wishes to dispute the agency's decisions can do so by providing new medical information and requesting a review or appeal of a decision.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged that the Canada Revenue Agency would administer measures for persons with disabilities in a fair, transparent, and accessible way.
On November 23, I proudly announced the reinstatement of the disability advisory committee, which the former Conservative government disbanded in 2006. By reinstating the committee, the agency will benefit from its advice on how to enhance the quality and accessibility of the services it provides to persons with disabilities across Canada.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance.
The Canada Revenue Agency has a very effective recovery process, which was strengthened by our government's historic investments of close to $1 billion in the agency. We are on track to recoup $25 billion as a result of audits conducted over the past two years, something that a former Conservative finance minister, Mr. Blackburn, said was not even a priority for the Conservative government.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I want to reassure all Canadians receiving the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed. If any changes need to be made to the agency's processes, we will consult with the experts on the disability advisory committee that we are creating. We will do so based on the principle of fairness for everyone who receives the disability tax credit, regardless of their disability.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I will say it once more: I want to reassure all Canadians who receive the disability tax credit that the eligibility criteria have not changed.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, as a former social worker, I am very familiar with the impact of a disability or chronic illness on an individual and family members living with him or her. On November 23, we reinstated the disability advisory committee. If changes must be made to the agency's process, we will make them with the experts seated around the table. We will work together and listen to them. All Canadians must receive the tax credits they are entitled to.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged that the Canada Revenue Agency would administer measures for persons with disabilities in a fair, transparent, and accessible way. People are entitled to the disability tax credit, regardless of their disability. Ensuring that these people receive the tax credit they are entitled to is a priority for me.
I want to point out to my colleague that it was the Conservatives who disbanded the disability advisory committee, and we are reinstating it.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged that the Canada Revenue Agency would administer measures for persons with disabilities in a fair, transparent, and accessible way.
I was proud to announce that the disability advisory committee, which was disbanded by the former Conservative government in 2006, was being reinstated. By reinstating the committee, the agency will benefit from its advice about enhancing the quality and accessibility of the services it provides to persons with disabilities and their families.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to combatting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. The CRA has an effective recovery process. This process was strengthened through our historic investments in 2016 to ensure that the CRA has all the tools it needs to effectively combat tax cheats.
We are on track to recover $25 billion in the wake of the audits that were conducted over the past two years. Every company or individual affected has been notified of the changes made by these audits and sent reassessments.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged that the CRA would administer measures for persons with disabilities in a fair, transparent, and accessible way.
Last week, I was proud to announce that the disability advisory committee, which our colleagues opposite disbanded in 2006 when they were in government, was being reinstated. By reinstating the committee, the agency will benefit from its advice about enhancing the quality and accessibility of the services it provides to persons with disabilities and their families.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, all Canadians must receive the tax credits to which they are entitled. I am pleased to say that there was a 20% increase in the number of approvals of this credit between 2014 and 2016.
We put in place measures to make these credits more accessible, and they are working. We reduced the length of the application form and we are allowing specialized nurse practitioners to fill out the forms. We will continue to work with the most vulnerable Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is implementing important measures to help the most vulnerable Canadians.
In 2015-16, our government invested more than $41 million in diabetes research. In budget 2017, we are investing $5 billion in mental health supports for about 500,000 young people. No changes have been made to the eligibility criteria for the disability tax credit, and we are continuing our efforts on behalf of the most vulnerable Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, all Canadians must receive the tax credits to which they are entitled. No changes have been made to the eligibility criteria for the disability tax credit. I am pleased to say that the number of approvals rose by 20% between 2014 and 2016.
We have taken action and I will continue to work for the most vulnerable as I have done throughout my life.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Shefford for her question and for her warm welcome this morning in Granby.
Small businesses are major economic-development drivers across Canada, and especially in our regions. This morning, I was proud to announce a national expansion of the Canada Revenue Agency's liaison officer service. Now, small businesses across the country may request an in-person visit from a liaison officer to help them understand their tax obligations and to get off on the right foot.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, all Canadians must receive the benefits to which they are entitled. I am pleased to say that 20% more credits were approved between 2014 and 2016.
We have implemented measures to make this credit more accessible, and they are paying off. We simplified the forms and allowed specialized nurse practitioners to fill them out if a doctor is not available.
No changes have been made to the eligibility criteria for the disability tax credit. We will continue to work for the most vulnerable Canadians.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government pledged that the Canada Revenue Agency would administer measures for persons with disabilities in a fair, transparent, and accessible way.
I proudly announced the reinstatement of the disability advisory committee, which the Conservative Party disbanded in 2006. By reinstating the committee, the agency will benefit from its advice about enhancing the quality and accessibility of the services it provides to persons with disabilities in Canada.
We will continue to work for the most vulnerable members of our society, as we have been doing since we took office.
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, our government is fully committed to fighting tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance. The Canada Revenue Agency has a very effective recovery process, which was strengthened by Liberal investments of close to $1 billion.
We were able to implement the necessary tools to crack down on tax cheats. All companies and individuals affected have been notified. We are on the right track to recoup these $25 billion. All those affected have been notified, and I can assure the House—
View Diane Lebouthillier Profile
Lib. (QC)
Mr. Speaker, all Canadians must receive the credits they are entitled to. Chronic illnesses impact not only the affected individual, but also their entire family and everyone around them.
However, I am pleased to say that the number of approvals for this credit went up by 20% between 2014 and 2016. We have put measures in place and reinstated the disability advisory committee, which will be able to make recommendations to us. We are going to continue working for the most vulnerable Canadians.
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