Green Party urges Canadian government to allow Haiti relief donations to be deductible for 2009 tax year

OTTAWA -- In the national outpouring of support for the 2004 Tsunami disaster the Canadian government allowed donations made to eligible charities in January 2005 to be tax deductible on the 2004 tax return.  The Green Party of Canada believes the government should repeat that gesture again in the wake of the overwhelming response to the Haiti earthquake. “Haiti will continue to need assistance in long term rebuilding but a tremendous need still remains for emergency funds now,” said Stephen LaFrenie, International Cooperation/CIDA critic for the Green Party.

The Canadian government has stated through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) that it will match donations given by individuals up until February 12, 2010.  We believe all donations by individuals made between January 12 and February 12, 2010 should be eligible for tax-deductible recognition for the 2009 tax year.   “Many Canadians whom are strapped for cash in these difficult economic times are extending themselves and making the extra effort that counts.  This would be a small gesture of recognition and gratitude by the Canadian government,” said Ard Van Leeuwen, Finance critic for the Green Party. “I wish to recognize and thank a Green Party supporter from Listowel, Ontario who brought this idea to our attention,” he said.

The Green Party encourages all Canadians to continue to show their generosity all the way up to the February 12 deadline. 

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Debra Eindiguer
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