Liberal Party: Liberals propose 2009 tax year eligibility for Haiti quake donations
Following the outpouring of generosity towards the Haitian earthquake relief effort, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff called on the federal government to extend last year’s tax deadline for charitable donations that benefit Haiti.“Canadians have been touched by the sheer magnitude of this crisis, and have given generously to help our friends in Haiti,” said Mr. Ignatieff. “But the need for immediate humanitarian assistance remains staggering, while the task of rebuilding Haiti looms. We should do everything we can to encourage more giving.”
“Another measure to make giving easier would be to allow Canadians to claim donations, made according to the government’s matching criteria, as part of the 2009 tax year,” said Liberal Revenue Critic Derek Lee.
A similar measure adopted by the former Liberal government in response to the 2004 tsunami resulted in a significant increase in charitable giving.
As of last Friday, the Canadian Red Cross alone reported $21 million in individual and corporate donations. The federal government has committed to match donations made by February 12, up to a maximum of $50 million, through the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund being managed by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
“Once again, the world is witnessing the tremendous generosity and compassion of Canadians who are always ready to step up to help those in need around the world,” concluded Mr. Ignatieff. “If they’re ready and willing to try and meet the unprecedented demand for help, then our government should do everything in its power to make it as easy as possible.”
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Published on Tuesday, January 19, 2010
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