Statement by the Taxpayers' Ombudsman on the tabling of the Auditor General of Canada's Report 7 - Compliance Activities - Canada Revenue Agency

"I share the Auditor General of Canada’s concerns on the need for the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to consistently apply the Income Tax Act during its compliance activities. We are pleased to see that the CRA has committed to address the recommendations in the report and take the necessary steps to improve timelines and consistency in its audit and review activities.

My Office has raised similar issues through our work to resolve service-related complaints and systemic issues. We have reported to the Minister of National Revenue on the need for the CRA to increase its consistency and timeliness in many areas of service delivery. All taxpayers are entitled to fair treatment by the CRA, regardless of where they are located in the country or whether they are an individual, small business or large corporation. The right to consistent, fair and timely treatment are just some of the rights in the Taxpayer Bill of Rights.

The Auditor General’s Report on Connectivity in Rural and Remote Areas also identified that many parts of Canada lack the minimum standard of broadband connectivity which, as we have observed through outreach activities and individual complaints, impacts rural and remote Canadians’ access to CRA services.

My Office will continue to engage with taxpayers and cooperate with the CRA to monitor trends and proactively raise issues related to treatment of taxpayers. Hearing from taxpayers when they experience issues allows us to offer feedback to the CRA with the result of breaking down barriers and improving the CRA’s service and accountability."