Opening Remarks

Speech for the honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of National Revenue

Appearance before the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance regarding Bill C-31,
An Act respecting cost of living relief measures related to dental care and rental housing

Ottawa, Ontario
November 2, 2022

Check against delivery.

Good evening, Mr. Chair, and thank you for inviting me to appear today to discuss important matters.

I am pleased to join my colleagues in discussing the application process for the Canada Dental Benefit and the One-time Top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit.

If the bill receives Royal Assent, in both cases, the Canada Revenue Agency (the Agency) would be responsible for administering these programs.

As you know, the Agency was at the heart of the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic by administering the various emergency programs.

Once again, we say "present" to help Canadians, who are among the most vulnerable to the rising cost of living.

The Agency's experience in administering credits such as the Canada Dental Benefit and the One-time Top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit will be a considerable asset.

The Agency is therefore perfectly suited to continue this work, given its ongoing relationship with taxpayers through the annual filing of income tax returns and through the regular payment of several government benefits, including the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit.

The Canada Dental Benefit and the One-time Top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit would be available to Canadians eligible for these programs through their Agency My Account. Claimants could also receive their respective payments within five business days if they are registered for direct deposit. To ensure timely payment, the Agency also encourages taxpayers to register for My Account before these programs are launched.

I can assure you that the Agency would rely heavily on its experience and best practices in terms of similar benefits to administer the two benefits in question.

In particular, the Agency would offer a secure, user-centred experience. Potential claimants would also receive efficient, fair and effective services through its People First service philosophy.

To conclude, I would say this: Even if the vast majority of Canadians are honest and trustworthy, the penalty provisions in the current Bill C-31 will provide the Agency with the tools it needs to prosecute those who file false returns.

I would now be happy to answer your questions. Thank you.