Thank you.
There could be further debate on potential savings. Several experts have put forward different figures regarding the issue of a single tax return, whether the return is managed at the federal or provincial level. However, the whole debate on the jobs that would be eliminated if a single tax return were adopted in Quebec is evidence that all stakeholders recognize some form of duplication in the current system. This inherent duplication in the system is the focus of the debate on the single tax return.
The question remains as to whether the federal or provincial level should handle the single tax return. Of course, we would like the provincial government to handle it. Over time, the Canadian provinces have relinquished these powers. In doing so, they've made financial gains, according to Mr. Brière. However, they've also paid a heavy price in terms of fiscal autonomy. Clearly, Quebec isn't prepared to pay that price.
It seems clear that a single tax return would save money and would make life easier for Quebec taxpayers. However, this return could only be managed by Quebec. Moreover, it would generate substantial savings.
If all the stakeholders act in good faith and everyone pulls their weight, the institutional arrangements, which the provinces have made with the federal government in the past, can easily be made the other way around.