Stop the HST

Sorry had to post my thoughts regarding the planned transition from our current PST and GST to the HST. I really believe that in opposition to the claims of the current Liberal government, this will increase expenses on many items. It’s essentially a way to grab 7% tax on items not currently covered by PST at this time.
This harmonization will add an additional 7% tax to:

GOODS

• Residential fuels (electricity, natural gas) and heating.
• Basic cable TV and residential phones.
• All food products (only basic groceries will remain exempt under new tax).
• Non-prescription medication.
• Vitamins and dietary supplements.
• Bicycles.
• School supplies (books will continue to be exempt).
• Magazines and newspapers.
• Work-related safety equipment.
• Safety helmets, life jackets, first-aid kits.
• Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
• Energy conservation equipment (e.g., insulation, solar power equipment).

SERVICES

• Personal services such as hair care.
• Dry cleaning.
• Repair services for household appliances.
• Household maintenance such as renovations and painting.
• Real estate fees.
• Membership fees for health clubs.
• Movie and theatre tickets.
• Funeral services.
• Professional services such as accounting and home care.
• Airline fares within Canada.
• Self-Storage facilities.

I strongly encourage all readers to do what they can (legally) to oppose the HST