Mr. Speaker, do we as members of Parliament and does the public generally have any idea what Bill S-9 is all about?
At a time when funding for Canadian colleges, universities and institutes is being reduced through cuts in transfer payments, the House is about to pass legislation today that will see Canadian taxpayers funding United States universities and colleges.
Yes, Canadian taxpayers will be able to support American colleges and universities. Bill S-9 will enable Canadians to donate funds to any college or university in the United States and then be able to deduct these contributions on their tax returns. Canadians will now be able to donate money to Harvard, Stanford, UCLA or Eastern Arkansas State College and then deduct these contributions on their Canadian tax returns.
Why are Canadians being asked to subsidize U.S. colleges and universities at the same time when support for Canadian post-secondary institutions are being seriously underfunded?