REFORM CALLS FOR END TO UNFAIR FAMILY TAXATION

OTTAWA, Mar 16 – Reform Family Caucus Chair Eric Lowther is calling on pro-family advocates to write to Finance Minister Paul Martin to protest the unfair taxation levied against parents who decide to stay home and care for their children.  In the House of Commons last week the Calgary Centre MP pointed out that the recent budget tabled by Martin “increased discrimination against parents who choose to care for their children at home.”  He asked the Minister, “When if ever will the government stop saying to stay-at-home parents that they will be given a tax break if someone else looks after their children,  but if they do it, there is no value in it?”  The following day Mr. Lowther noted the case of Calgary homemaker Beverley Smith who lobbied Canadian officials for two decades for equitable tax treatment.  Ms. Smith has brought her case against the Canadian government to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, pointing out 11 areas under which Canada discriminates against homemakers.  Ms. Smith points out that others can deduct child-care expenses but homemakers cannot.  Pro-family advocates are urged to contact Paul Martin on this issue and to send a copy of any written communications to Mr. Lowther.  Paul Martin 515-S Centre Block House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 Phone: (613) 992-4284 Fax: (613) 992-4291   Eric Lowther 254 Wellington Building House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6 Phone: (613) 995-1127 Fax: (613) 995-7111 Email: [email protected]