To the Editor:
A couple of years after the instalment of three new governments in Thompson, Winnipeg and Ottawa, the song remains the same.
Manitoba: As if farmers are not doing enough working eight days a week to feed us, a new tax for prosperous farmers. And for those of us on low incomes, a 50 per cent decrease in housing allowances, coupled with a proposal for a user fee on health care recipients. We maintain the medical system with a seven per cent provincial sales tax. As you constantly reduce services, the government asks for more.
City of Thompson: Recently, there was an uproar at city council over a 1.5 per cent wage increase in the wages of salaried city staff.
So, if you wish to show how this will be financed, dump some trash at the city landfill site. My last trip, the fee for one load in my half-ton truck had been increased 250 per cent to $35 from $10. When did council approve this fee increase?
Ottawa: A new tax on discounts employees receive at retail outlets. What will Trudeau think of next? An odometer on wheelchairs so he can charge our elderly a sidewalk tax?
I sincerely believe it is time for us to begin a tax revolt and embark on certain simple strategies. Don't rush to City Hall to pay property taxes; don’t' file income tax before April 30, 2018 even if they owe you money. I'm starting my own revolt today, and I would like to start a lobby to let Ottawa, Winnipeg and city hall known that we don't hire you to live in opulence. You are "public servants."
Angus Campbell
Thompson
