Second reading of ‘The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act’

Member of Parliament for Provencher, Ted Falk’s Private Members Bill – C-239 – ‘The Fairness in Charitable Gifts Act’, would have allowed registered charities to provide their donors with the same generous donation receipts that politicians can now issue. Unfortunately, on June 8th the Liberal and New Democrat Members of Parliament voted against this bill ensuring its demise.

On June 7, I spoke in the House of Commons on this bill and below are a few excerpts from my speech. My complete speech can be found at: http:// www.parl.gc.ca/content/hoc/ House/421/Debates/067/ HAN067-E.PDF (See page 77.)

“The bill before us is a great bill for all members of the House and their ridings. It would help every riding in this country. The depth and scope of the non-profit and voluntary sector in Alberta has provided a wide variety of services to the communities. Non-profit and volunteer organizations touch virtually all aspects of our communities.”

“I do not think anything could be clearer than what has transpired in Fort McMurray, Alberta, in the last month. Donations flooded into charities from across Canada. Hotels opened their doors, and people donated personal money, food, rations, and gas.”

“Bill C-239 is a great initiative to level the playing field. The primary motivation for donating is the compassion and personal belief of most people.”

“It is very interesting to note how Canadians pulled together in all parts of this country to support services in their communities. It is the generosity of donors that makes these agencies work, such as the Red Cross, animal shelters, senior centres, and community groups.”

It is sad that C-239 did not pass Second Reading. It would have put receipts for charities and political donations on an even playing field. Unfortunately, on June 8th the Liberal and New Democrat Members of Parliament voted against this bill. Bill C-239 would have given more money to those who need it and less to those who do not. I firmly believe that if we had a fair tax exemption program, as this bill was asking for, people would give more generously. Charities are suffering, and they need donations in order to operate. Jim Eglinski, MP – Yellowhead