It is not every day that one encounters someone with the ability to “think outside the box,” thus it was very illuminating to read the recent letter from Doris Darvasi (The Leader, July 12).
It is interesting that almost daily, the media report something that requires additional funding, yet at the same time we hear so much anti-taxes of any kind – the most recent being the “anti-Evergreen line.” Where do people think the government gets the money for these things?
(Interestingly the recent, and second, increase in the environmental tax on gasoline, natural gas and electricity was implemented without a murmur).
As a pensioner driving a small car I often wonder as I look around at fellow travelers when stopped for traffic lights, how the young men next to me can afford such a luxury car.
Thus, I could not agree more whole heartedly with Darvasi’s statement and question: “Why are we always penalizing those who are already paying personal (income) taxes ...”
“Lets get some money back from those who through illegal acts or cheating and lying don’t pay their share.”
The only way to do this is through consumption taxes like the HST.
Mac Savage
Surrey