THE NDP IS MEDDLING
The NDP has been ballyhooing the success of its job creation efforts, which include a tax break for selected businesses. Aurora Cannabis is among 35 companies granted a capital investment tax credit, and applications for a third round of respite are being received by the provincial government until March 15. Tax credits are “doing exactly what they’re designed to do, which is create new jobs and help diversify the economy,” Economic Development Minister Deron Bilous said on Monday.
The government means well, but if tax reductions are an effective way of spurring capital investment, the NDP should be offering them to every business. Entrepreneurs shouldn’t have to go cap in hand to the government, which then decides who is worthy of taxpayer assistance and who isn’t.
Aurora is building a $120-million marijuana growing operation that will employ 330 people at its headquarters at Edmonton International Airport.
“The cannabis sector is the fastest-growing industry in Canada,” says Cam Battley, Aurora’s chief corporate officer. “We’re creating good jobs, from entry-level all the way up to jobs that require advanced scientific degrees.”
It poses the question why a company in a thriving industry needs concessions from the public. Aurora is likely to flourish with or without a tax credit once marijuana is legalized on July 1.
The same kind of well-intended overreach exists in the new round of renewable power auctions. The NDP wants bids to generate 700 megawatts of renewable electricity, and has reserved 300 megawatts for proposals with Indigenous ownership.
Surely, the NDP’s overarching concern is getting the best price possible, not meddling with who generates the power. It’s evident Indigenous groups are well equipped to compete for the contracts. without the patronization of government
Southern Alberta’s Kainai First Nation has a 200-megawatt wind project that’s “shovelready” if it’s selected. “We want to proceed with the first phase, which is 100 megawatts, and we have everything in place,” says Chief Roy Fox.
That’s tremendous, but once again, it begs the question, why does the NDP feel the need to hamstring what should be a straightforward invitation for proposals? First Nations groups, which are also considering solar power projects, may well secure contracts for more than 300 megawatts, which would be a tribute to their ambition and resourcefulness.
The NDP should set competitive tax rates that apply to everyone, and accept the results of the free market without interference.