Throne Speech vision for growth must come with fiscal responsibility

TORONTO, Dec. 4, 2015 /CNW/ - Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada) is cautiously optimistic about the course for economic growth outlined in today's Speech from the Throne.

The national accounting organization is pleased the Throne Speech signals the federal government's intention to pursue a fiscal plan "that is responsible, transparent and suited to challenging economic times."

While the Throne Speech did not reference earlier election commitments to run modest deficits to pay for stimulus measures, it did promise to deliver new investments in public transit, green infrastructure and social infrastructure.

"Balancing the budget is always preferable to running a deficit, but with lingering economic uncertainty it is understandable for the federal government to consider short-term stimulus solutions to help grow the Canadian economy to make it more competitive and productive," stresses Kevin Dancey, president and CEO, CPA Canada. "However, if deficits are required to help pay for economic stimulus, the government must stick to its plan to return to a balanced budget in 2019-20."

Going forward, CPA Canada will continue to push for tax reform as a way to strengthen the economy. "Canada's tax system is one of the most important policy levers available for addressing the country's demographic challenges and for ensuring that its business environment remains competitive," explains Dancey.

CPA Canada points out that there has not been a thorough review of Canada's tax system since the Royal Commission on Taxation in 1966 and there have been significant changes in Canadian society since then. The national accounting body also notes that there is a growing consensus for tax simplification and reform from major national organizations, economists and think-tanks, and the House of Commons finance committee.

"Tax reform would improve Canada's international competitiveness, productivity, economic growth and long-term prosperity," says Dancey. "With a majority government in place, it is an ideal time to address pressing issues that will likely require a longer-term focus such as tax reform."

The accounting organization is encouraged by the Throne Speech's commitment to transparency, climate change, and expanding opportunities for all Canadians through growing and diversifying Canada's international trade.

CPA Canada also welcomes the federal government's announced intentions to listen to Canadians. "Our approach to working in the public interest is through engagement as we look to address issues collaboratively, effectively and efficiently," says Dancey. "We look forward to working with the new federal government to advance sound public policy."

About CPA Canada   
The new Canadian designation, Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), is now used by Canada's accounting profession across the country. The profession's national body, Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada), is one of the largest in the world with more than 200,000 members, both at home and abroad. The Canadian CPA was created with the unification of three legacy accounting designations (CA, CGA and CMA). CPAs are valued for their financial and tax expertise, strategic thinking, business insight, management skills and leadership. CPA Canada conducts research into current and emerging business issues and supports the setting of accounting, auditing and assurance standards for business, not-for-profit organizations and government. CPA Canada also issues guidance and thought leadership on a variety of technical matters, publishes professional literature and develops education and professional certification programs. cpacanada.ca

SOURCE CPA Canada

For further information: Tobin Lambie, Principal, Media, CPA Canada, T: 416-204-3228, C: 647-302-3761, [e-mail]; Diana Sorace, Manager, Media Relations, CPA Canada, T: 604-694-6700, C: 604-551-4487, [e-mail]