Ottawa, March 23, 2011
2011-029
The Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance, and the Honourable John Baird, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, today highlighted an important measure in the Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan that provides families with tax relief, while contributing to children’s development and helping to create Canada’s next great artists.
The new 15-per-cent Children’s Arts Tax Credit, proposed in yesterday’s federal budget, will be provided on up to $500 per child of eligible fees associated with children’s artistic, cultural, recreational and developmental activities.
“This tax relief will help parents provide their children with opportunities to explore and develop their skills so that they may achieve their full potential,” said Minister Flaherty.
“In addition to keeping taxes low for Canadian families, the Harper Government is proud to support Canada’s next great artists, and to build on Canada’s rich arts and cultural heritage,” added Minister Baird.
Registration costs for participation in an eligible artistic, cultural, recreational or developmental program not covered by the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit may be claimed under the Children’s Arts Tax Credit. Examples of eligible activities include classes in art, music, photography and languages, as well as other activities such as scouting.
The Children’s Arts Tax Credit builds on the Government's actions to help parents and their children, such as the introduction of the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit, which provides tax relief for fees paid for children’s activities such as hockey, soccer, basketball, gymnastics and baseball. Close to 1.4 million individuals benefit from the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit each year.
For more information, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
For further information, media may contact:
Annette Robertson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Finance
613-996-7861
Jack Aubry
Media Relations
Department of Finance
613-996-8080
