Mr. Speaker, I join colleagues today in tabling a petition raising concern about a proposal from the Liberal-dominated finance committee to strip charitable status from all houses of worship. This was, in particular, recommendation 430.
The removal of charitable status from houses of worship would affect churches, mosques, synagogues, temples, gurdwaras and all houses of worship by removing “promotion of religion” as a legitimate purpose under charities law, and this would also result in a confiscation tax. The removal of charitable status, as recommended in recommendation 430, would lead to a confiscation tax, which would require these houses of worship to hand over their property to the government.
The member for Winnipeg North seems to think that this is a ridiculous proposal. He should talk to the Liberals on the finance committee. He should read that report, because it is a clear recommendation. It is one that Conservatives oppose, but it is one that, sadly, Liberals supported.
The petitioners call on this House and on the government to reject recommendation 430 and to protect freedom of religion and recognize the positive contribution of faith communities in this country.