I am fully aware of the rationale that the Minister used. I still don't agree with. It seems to me, though, that when we are talking to the federal government, there are some obvious barriers for us to achieve our objectives in a more rational way. I see why the Minister took this route because, at that point in time, there weren't those other alternatives for him to accomplish the ends that he wanted. It seems to me, for instance, that we have a very favourable personal income tax. If there are barriers for people declaring their income tax in the Northwest Territories as opposed to a jurisdiction with a much higher personal income tax, I would like the Minister to explain what those barriers are. If there are barriers, it seems to me that would be a logical approach with the federal government. Let's review those barriers. If the federal government really believes in the free flow of capital and people across Canada, then it would seem to me that they couldn't have a moral objection to people paying their personal income tax in the Northwest Territories if they work in the Northwest Territories, and if it is cheaper for people it seems to me that it would be to their advantage to do so. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Michael Ballantyne on Bill 1: Appropriation Act, No. 2, 1994-95
In the Legislative Assembly on February 23rd, 1994. See this statement in context.
Bill 1: Appropriation Act, No. 2, 1994-95
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 22nd, 1994
Page 324
Michael Ballantyne Yellowknife North
See context to find out what was said next.