Skip to content

Tax changes will impact northern campgrounds, says MP

Angus wants finance minister to reach out to campground associations
AdobeStock_222823652
Stock image

NEWS RELEASE
TIMMINS-JAMES BAY MP CHARLIE ANGUS
*************************
Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus has written to the minister of finance over changes to how campgrounds are taxed. Angus says the Liberals want to remove the status of small business for incorporated campgrounds that do not employ at least five employees full-time year-round.

Angus says many northern campgrounds will be impacted. “This will have a hugely negative effect on small rural communities that rely on private campgrounds to stimulate their local economy. It will also have a very negative impact on families who look to these campgrounds to enjoy the beauty of Canada’s great outdoors.”

Angus is surprised the government would make such a move. “During the election campaign the Prime Minister promised to provide $2,000 bursaries to encourage Canadian families to go camping.”

A recent decision from the Tax Court of Canada stated that any campground that doesn’t meet the criteria (45 per cent of privately-owned campgrounds), may be required to pay back taxes with interest to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Angus is calling on Bill Morneau to reach out to the campground associations to find ways of ensuring that tax policy reform is fair and helps promote the growth of this industry. 

“After all, we need those campgrounds open if we want Canadian families to enjoy them.”

*************************