Mr. Speaker, on two occasions since I was elected to this House in 1988, I have brought forward to the House motions recommending that the government raise the tax exemption levels for volunteer firefighters.
In June 1994 my motion to raise the tax exemption level was given overwhelming support by all parties. It should be noted that the last time an increase was given was in 1980. Since that time, training and equipment costs have gone up. Those who have purchased the equipment with their own money and who give their time serving their communities have not benefited from the increase in inflation.
I agree with the Minister of Finance that during these times of fiscal restraints we must be careful not to overextend ourselves. However, I would think that all members here would agree that tax breaks could help promote volunteerism in our communities.
I believe one of the top priorities should be to encourage volunteerism—