St. John’s, NL (December 5, 2024) – Lin Paddock, Shadow Minister of Finance and MHA for Baie Verte-Green Bay, has criticized the Liberal temporary tax changes as being flawed in both design and impact.

“We are only weeks away from the temporary tax changes taking effect, but for many small businesses these changes are becoming a tax nightmare. Local entrepreneurs, already dealing with the busiest season of the year, are now faced with a mountain of extra work, confusion, and costs to adjust their point-of-sale systems,” said Paddock.

Beyond the immediate strain on local businesses, Paddock criticized the inadequacy of the temporary tax changes for not supporting seniors.

“A temporary tax reprieve does absolutely nothing to help seniors who are splitting pills and having to choose between heating their home or nutritious food. The list of items which will receive a tax reprieve does not include items commonly used by seniors,” continued Paddock.

Paddock is calling on the Liberals to take a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to policy-making by consulting small businesses and prioritizing long-term solutions for the most vulnerable.

“Small business owners are the backbone of our economy, and they deserve respect, consultation, and clear guidance—not last-minute policies that create chaos. Seniors need real support, not empty gestures,” concluded Paddock.