Letter: Niki Ashton the NDP Tax Fairness Critic Urges the Government to Extend the Northern Resident Tax Deduction to Grand Rapids and Misipawistik Cree Nation

October 24th, 2023

Dear Minister Bibeau,

I am writing to address a matter of significant concern that is affecting the northern and Indigenous communities of Grand Rapids and Misipawistik Cree Nation (MCN) in my riding. Despite their location north of the 53rd parallel here in Manitoba, residents of these communities are currently ineligible for the Northern Residents Tax Deductions.

This situation is particularly distressing given the ongoing cost of living crisis, which disproportionately impacts northern communities and families. Both Grand Rapids and MCN face severe challenges in the infrastructure and affordability gap, with five or more hours to the nearest city or service center. As you may know, northern and Indigenous communities face elevated living costs, environmental challenges, and limited access to essential services. Regrettably, Grand Rapids and Misipawistik Cree Nation are no exception to these challenges.

Therefore, I am writing, as the NDP critic for Tax Fairness, to urge the federal government to take immediate action to include Grand Rapids and MCN to the prescribed intermediate zones regarding the Northern Resident Tax Deduction. This step would not only help alleviate the financial burdens faced by the residents of Grand Rapids and MCN but also take a step forward to demonstrate the government's commitment to supporting all northern and Indigenous communities during these challenging times.

I appreciate your attention to this pressing matter, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

MP Niki Ashton

Churchill—Keewatinook Aski