Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am aware of the problem the Member is addressing here. I have today signed a letter in response to his constituent. The Government of the Northwest Territories recognizes indigenous aboriginal people, whether they are Dene, Metis or Inuit, and provides the same assistance to those individuals. The person would have qualified for a basic and a supplementary grant. Unfortunately, Revenue Canada and the federal government only allow tax-free status on funds to treaty Dene people. Therefore, Metis and Inuit people wind up owing taxes on monies that are provided to them by way of grant. This is not something that we can change as a government, though we have tried to address the issue with Revenue Canada. They hold firm to the position that only treaty Dene will be tax exempt and, therefore, the monies that are provided by way of grant are considered taxable income in the hands of the Metis and Inuit students. This is true whether the student travels to the south or stays resident in the north. This is one of the areas in which I had hoped to make some modifications to the Student Financial Assistance Program, which is currently under review. I am hopeful that I will be able to propose some changes that might address this issue in the future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Charles Dent on Question 152-13(6): Tax Exemptions For Students
In the Legislative Assembly on November 5th, 1998. See this statement in context.
Return To Question 152-13(6): Tax Exemptions For Students
Question 152-13(6): Tax Exemptions For Students
Item 6: Oral Questions
November 4th, 1998
Page 280
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