OTTAWA – In response to the Conservative Transit Pass Tax Credit, David Jeanes, President of Transport 2000, has incorrectly suggested in several news reports that the Tax Credit applies only to monthly-pass holders.  On the contrary, under a Conservative government, any purchase of transit passes or tickets will be deductible so long as receipts are provided.  A backgrounder accompanying yesterday’s press release clearly stated that:

"The tax credit will apply to all transit passes, whether annual, monthly or weekly, and also to other fare payment options (e.g., multi-ride passes, bulk ticket purchases, etc).  The only requirement is that the taxpayer must provide receipts for the purchase.  Most commuters already have the option of purchasing transit passes; we will encourage all transit systems to offer this option as a means of encouraging regular ridership.”

Mr. Jeanes also stated that the Conservative policy must be accompanied by investments into public transit. Conservative Leader Stephen Harper yesterday acknowledged the need for additional investments, and confirmed that an announcement addressing this issue would be forthcoming.

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For more information: Conservative Press Office at (613) 755-2191

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30 December 2005 Correcting the Record on the Conservative Transit Pass Tax Credit

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29 December 2005 Harper transit plan to benefit environment (Speech)

29 December 2005 Annual Savings for Commuters on Selected Routes (PDF)

29 December 2005 Promoting Public Transit by Reducing the Cost of Ridership (Backgrounder)

29 December 2005 Harper Transit Plan to Benefit Environment (News Release)