The last thing I thought I would be doing was writing another article about the HST.
Round and round the information goes; surely we understand how the global economy effects business and industry. Many countries in the industrialized world are in financial crisis, why?
Over-spending, not living within budget, debt financing.
I for one don’t want that for the future of my children and grandchildren.
I read a recent article by Frank McKenna, former premier of New Brunswick. He said the HST was good for New Brunswick’s economy – are we any different? The HST boosted investment and economic growth by allowing them to receive refunds on the provincial portion of taxes paid on equipment and materials used to make their products, which allowed them to reinvest the savings for the future.
This led to massive investments in machinery, rising by an annual average of 8 – 12 per cent for the decade after the harmonization and strengthened their competitive position.
Now I am not an economist but if the HST is so bad, why would 91 economists sign an open letter supporting the HST? Why would the Chair of the BC Certified General Accountants write an article in support of the HST as a transparent tax not a tax that is imbedded in the product cost?
No matter which way you vote remember the economy is driven by industries and business – not the public sector. Revenues and taxes pay the bills, we need those dollars for health care, education, the ability to maintain our infrastructures. Without a strong economic base – where exactly will the dollars come from, higher taxes? Do we want to take a step backward now or move into the future?
Not wanting to repeat myself, but I’ll say it again when you vote, don’t make that decision in anger against the Liberal government. Look at the positive things the government has done over the past years, to name a few, Northern medical program, nurses training, Tele health, Phase I, Phase II. All of this has made a difference to our quality of life. You have an opportunity, the future is waiting, what is best for B.C.’s economy and standard of living.
Regardless, everyone benefits from a healthy economy, be informed do your research.
I find it interesting our MLA won’t share his opinion; he doesn’t want to influence our decision by sharing his belief, really.
Perhaps he doesn’t wish to offend the Yes or the No.
A simple question – do you believe the HST is good for the economy of B.C. or not?
Mary Glassford is a long-term Quesnel resident, former Cariboo Regional District director and city councilor and president of the Post Secondary Education Council.