News release

Revenue Canada extends measures to assist Canadians most affected by the ice storm

Ottawa, February 18, 1998...The Honourable Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of National Revenue and M.P. (Vancouver South - Burnaby), today reaffirmed his commitment to assisting Canadians in those areas most affected by the ice storm.

Realizing the extent of the hardship experienced during this period by some individuals, especially small businesses, the Minister would like to remind them that the Department will continue to apply the fairness provisions in the application of penalties and interest for taxpayers delayed in meeting their tax obligations.

"The severity of the storm's impact in the most affected areas of Quebec and eastern Ontario is such that it's going to take longer to get back to business as usual in those areas," said Mr. Dhaliwal. Therefore, special consideration will be given to obligations resulting from quarterly and monthly instalments, GST and payroll remittances, and other delays in meeting tax owing as a result of the ice storm.

It has not been possible for the Department to stop the calculation of interest for clients in the most affected areas who are late in meeting their obligations because of the storm. Those who receive a statement or a notice in the mail that includes an interest charge should contact their Revenue Canada office, or the Department's toll-free ice storm information line at 1 800 661 6121. Revenue Canada will review each request on a case by case basis and make any necessary adjustments.

"Revenue Canada is aware that a particular burden was placed on taxpayers, as a result of this natural disaster," Mr. Dhaliwal said. "I am pleased that we are able to offer these measures to help people, most seriously affected by the ice storm, get back on their feet."

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