Mr. Speaker, I have asked government ministers repeatedly to waive the GST on supplies and services donated to the reconstruction of fire-ravaged areas of B.C.
Many uninsured people in the North Thompson have rebuilt their homes and places of business thanks to volunteers from all over North America.
They and the businesses who supply materials should be exempted from paying GST.
Fuel donated to truck agricultural goods like cattle feed into fire-stricken areas in my area should have also been GST-free.
The brave men and women firefighters sold T-shirts to raise relief funds and this government is charging them GST.
I am sure all members of the House can see the unfairness of forcing good Samaritans to pay tax on their generosity.
I wish to thank and congratulate the many generous people who have donated labour and materials to assist fire victims and I call upon the government to do the right thing: waive the GST on those donations.