Recently, an op-ed in the Star Phoenix criticized me for a column in which I had written: “I hate taxes”. I also stated that taxes were a restraint on freedom. The author of the piece was somehow offended by my strong stand against taxes. Well, let me state again, I really hate taxes.

Some taxes are necessary to fund useful public services (police, fire, and general public works, for example). However, tax rates are too high.

In 2008, the average Canadian family spent almost half its total income (43.9 per cent) on taxes to the three levels of government (federal, provincial and municipal) according to the Fraser Institute.

In fact, the total tax bill that Canadian families have to pay has increased by an amazing 1,783 per cent since 1961, noted Niels Veldhuis, the Fraser Institute’s director of fiscal studies.

Tax rates need to come down across the board–as much as possible. The tax system is too complicated in our country. Canada needs to simplify the tax system. Even worthwhile deductions can, overtime, distort taxes and create a hopelessly complex tax code.

Canada needs lower taxes to boost economic growth and to protect personal freedom.

I’m Brad Trost, your Member of Parliament in Saskatoon-Humboldt. You can call my office in Saskatoon at 975-6133 or drop by our two offices to visit: Saskatoon Monday-Friday or Humboldt Tuesday and Wednesday. I always appreciate your feedback.