YELLOWKNIFE (September 23rd, 2010) – Minister of Finance J. Michael Miltenberger has released a discussion paper on revenue options for public discussion. This is the third round of public consultation held by the Finance Minister since 2008.
The discussion paper lays out, for consideration and debate, options for introducing a revenue-neutral carbon tax to encourage the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and a hotel tax to fund tourism strategies.
Both of these options have been brought forward in earlier consultations and while neither of these options reflects current GNWT tax policy, they are intended to stimulate public discussion.
The Minister will also be hosting a third roundtable in early October, to discuss the paper with representatives from a broad range of business, social and environmental organizations, as well as community and Aboriginal governments.
“Protecting our environment and promoting the NWT as a place to visit and live remain top priorities for the government,” said the Minister. “I look forward to hearing from NWT residents on these important issues.”
