(February 2, 2023, St. John’s) – David Brazil, PC Official Opposition Leader and MHA for Conception Bay East – Bell Island, is calling on the Minister of Finance to make sure the upcoming budget does not bring additional harm to local businesses, but rather should offer tax and regulatory relief and help for local business owners who are trying to grow our local economy.

“Local business owners in Newfoundland and Labrador have been hit with a terrible, perfect storm of circumstances and bad Liberal decisions which have made it hard to grow business. The pandemic, supply chain issues, worries of a recession, along with the regressive Sugar Tax, upcoming Carbon Tax increases, changes to the CPP and EI programs, increased red tape burden – it all comes together to create a difficult environment to grow businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Brazil.

Brazil alluded to the recent 2023 Red Tape Report Card issued by the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses.

“Just this week, the Liberal government ranked last in Canada, with a failing grade, when it comes to red tape reduction and the regulatory burden that the Liberal Government have placed on local businesses,” said Brazil.

“Because of this needless regulatory burden, local business owners are spending too much time jumping through hoops and filling out paperwork; this is time business owners want to be spending on supporting their customers, creating new products, and hiring new employees.

“The intense regulatory burden of this Liberal Government is something local business shouldn’t have to face right now.”

Brazil says the coming budget is a chance for action.

“With the provincial budget coming in the coming months, I urge the Minister to lower both the regulatory burden and the tax budget of local businesses, freeing up local businesses to focus on economic growth,” suggested Brazil.

“The Minister must start listening to businesses. Budget 2023 is an opportunity for the Minister to right the Liberal wrongs of the past and support our economy.”

-30-

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca