Minister Shea hosts economic consultations with local business leaders

Alberton, Prince Edward Island, January 15, 2013... The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue today took part in economic consultations with members of the local business community. These consultations were aimed at engaging Canadians in discussions about their priorities and ideas for achieving the best use of taxpayers’ dollars in the lead-up to the 2013 budget.

"Our Government’s top priority remains creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Shea. "When we consult directly with businesses, we gain first-hand knowledge of their needs. That allows us to improve government services to help them meet their business objectives."

These consultations add to the Canada Revenue Agency’s (CRA) ongoing dialogue with businesses across the country. In October 2012, Minister Shea announced new measures to cut red tape at CRA as part of the Harper Government’s Red Tape Reduction Action Plan. Progress to date, based on feedback from businesses coast to coast, includes the creation of a dedicated team that is responsible for coordinating and addressing small business issues, such as making filing easier and eliminating barriers to voluntary compliance with the tax system.

Other measures the CRA has taken to reduce red tape include the creation of a "one-stop" Web page where businesses can now easily find information and service options relevant to their tax situation: www.cra.gc.ca/businessonline. Businesses, or their representatives, can also now ask the CRA a tax question related to their account using the My Business Account online enquiries service. Businesses then receive answers they can rely on in the secure online portal.

In order to ensure that all Canadians can participate in the pre-budget consultation process, the federal government has launched online consultations through the Department of Finance Canada Web site. Those interested in participating can find more information at www.fin.gc.ca.

Canada Revenue Agency

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