Ottawa, Ontario, January 23, 2009... The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is inviting Canadians to tell how the underground economy is affecting them and their communities by participating in the Underground Economy - Not your Problem? YouTube video contest.
Visit the CRA's YouTube channel to find out why the underground economy is a problem for all Canadians. Then create a video, and tell us what you think about the underground economy and how it's a problem for you, your family, or your business. Submit your video entry to the CRA's YouTube channel. The winner will be honoured with the CRA Independent Video Producer Award at a special screening to take place in Ottawa during the spring of 2009. The videos may be used in CRA outreach initiatives.
"The government is committed to helping Canadians understand their tax obligations so they can meet their responsibilities and protect themselves from fraud. In these difficult economic times, it is an increased priority for the government to address the underground economy and protect responsible taxpayers who comply with the tax laws," said the Honourable Jean‑Pierre Blackburn, Minister of National Revenue. "All Canadians are affected by the underground economy and should take advantage of this opportunity to have their say."
Those who participate in the underground economy are avoiding their tax responsibilities at the expense of all Canadians. This places an unfair burden on law‑abiding businesses and individuals by reducing the amount of money available for important government programs like health care, education, and the environment.
The underground economy also undermines the competitiveness of businesses and individuals because it offers an unfair, illegal advantage to those who fail to comply with Canada's tax laws.
Consumers who indirectly support the underground economy by paying cash for a "cheaper deal" should also be aware of the risks they are taking by dealing with someone who is not operating legitimately, which includes not having any recourse for poor workmanship and being liable if someone is injured on the job.
The CRA is working with other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments, professional organizations, and key industry groups to identify, prevent, and take action on the underground economy.
"Through the YouTube video contest, we are opening a dialogue with Canadians," said Minister Blackburn. "The underground economy is a significant problem with serious consequences for taxpayers, businesses, and our economy. Let's start talking about it and start working together."
The YouTube video contest will be open until April 30, 2009. For more information on the underground economy, guidelines for video submissions, and a link to the CRA's YouTube channel, go to www.cra.gc.ca/contest.
