End tax credits for political donations

Murray Mandryk’s column about the Regina Brandt fiasco was a great piece. When we put that issue up against the federal scandal over Snc-lavalin it shows a real need for electoral reform.

It’s an issue in provincial politics, too. Between 2007 and 2017 Saskatchewan tax credits issued for political donations was $45,216,377.63. It’s a win-win for some donors wanting government business like Snc-lavalin or Brandt. Political parties benefit because of the cash to their coffers. The taxpayer subsidizes the pork barrel. Further, 2017 was a year where we saw tax increases and program cuts. Interestingly enough the political donor tax credit was not a casualty of these cuts.

Perhaps we need to rethink policy in this area. Why should a donor to a political party get a bigger tax credit than a donor to charity? In an era of economic struggle, why do political parties come out unscathed? When certain companies are in litigation, how do they gain access to the premier?

If it’s wrong for Justin Trudeau why is it not wrong for Scott Moe or Ryan Meili? Do we need to give a tax credit for political donations at all? Should it be the same as charitable donations? We can’t wait for change — we have to do it. I say, yes Saskatchewan we can!

Ken Grey, leader, Progressive Conservative Party of Saskatchewan, Moose Jaw