The Underground Economy: Not Your Problem?
.. How thoughtful … CRA has extended this video contest to expire on April 30, 2009 – the deadline date when most Canadians have to file their income tax return on time …
The following is now available on the CRA Web site:
News release
Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn invites Algonquin College students to speak up about the underground economy
Ottawa, Ontario, February 12, 2009 . . . The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of National Revenue, met with students at Algonquin College to discuss the negative impact of the underground economy, and encourage them and all Canadians to have their say through the national Underground Economy – Not your Problem? YouTube video contest.
“The government is committed to addressing the costs and risks associated with the underground economy and protecting Canada’s tax base,” said Minister Blackburn. “Those who participate in the underground economy avoid their tax responsibilities at the expense of law-abiding individuals and businesses. They’re taking away funds needed for the programs and services relied on by Canadians, especially at a time when we should all be working to build our economy together.”
The underground economy also undermines the competitiveness of businesses and individuals because it offers an unfair, illegal advantage to those who fail to comply with Canada’s tax laws. As well, consumers who indirectly support the underground economy by paying cash for a “cheaper deal” should also be aware of the risks they are taking by dealing with someone who is not operating legitimately. This could include not having any recourse for poor workmanship and being liable if someone is injured on the job.
“Many of the students who graduate from Algonquin College become tradespersons and are particularly victimized by the underground economy,” said Robert C. Gillett, President of Algonquin College. “We support this initiative, which will help our students launch into successful and legitimate working lives.”
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) launched its video contest recently to give all Canadians an opportunity to speak up about how the underground economy is a problem for them, their businesses, and their communities. Video entries can be submitted to the CRA’s YouTube channel, and the winner will be honoured with the CRA Independent Video Producer Award at a special screening to take place in Ottawa during the spring of 2009.
“I am happy to see the support and enthusiasm these students have for the national video contest and encourage all Canadians to get involved,” said Minister Blackburn.
You can have your say about the underground economy through the CRA’s video contest until April 30, 2009. For more information on the underground economy, guidelines for video submissions, and a link to the CRA’s YouTube channel, go to http://www.cra.gc.ca/contest
Source: CRA Newsroom
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