Editor:
I write in response to Henry Hightower (“Advocating for health,” Coast Reporter letters, April 2) and thank him for expressing his concerns. The allegation that the government will soon be taxing mental health assessments and examinations is incorrect. Examinations and assessments for psychological services, and for any health purposes, will continue to be exempt from taxes.
What may have confused people is that the exemption from taxes applies for the above-mentioned services performed for health purposes, but taxes may be payable if those services are performed solely for non-health purposes (for example, for the purpose of determining liability in a court proceeding or under an insurance policy). Examinations and assessments performed for a health purpose are and will continue to be exempt.
Our Conservative government strongly believes in lowering taxes for Canadians. We delivered on our commitment to reduce the GST rate from seven to five per cent. This provides broad-based tax relief to all Canadians, including those whose income is too low to pay income tax, on nearly everything they buy.
This government is constantly committed to improving our tax system. In this regard, Mr. Hightower’s views, along with the views of all Canadians, are much appreciated.
John Weston, MP, West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country
