Golfing Our Pensions Away

RIDGE MEADOWS DISH

February 5, 2012

In a time of fiscal restraints, downsized economy, staggering unemployment and tightening of belt straps. A group of lobbyists are working diligently to allow MP's to take a 50% tax deduction off of their golfing green fees.

Yes, you read that correctly. While tax payers are struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on their tables, a group of MP's want to play golf on YOUR dime and take a tax break for it. 

Where in that statement is there any type of fiscal logic? A 50% tax deduction is 50% less that the government is taking in to pay down the ever growing deficit and debt load. 

I apologize to all the golfers out there but this is just insanity, plain and simple. Out of one side of the government's mouth they are feverishly attempting to bump up the age of eligibility for Canada Pension and out of the other they are saying that major decisions and discussions on the links should be tax deductible.

I should point out that the MP's already receive an expense reimbursement for food and beverages that are consumed at the golf course and what they are looking for is a 50% tax deduction for their green fees. Memberships to golf courses are NOT being included in this request. 

In my ever humble opinion, I believe that more emphasis should be placed on finding money to bump up health care, education and employment in the country rather than saving $100 on a round of golf. 

I'm sorry Members of Parliament but this one is just pushing it too far. To Prime Minister Stephen Harper, I beg you to look at all the homeless and those in need of better health care and tell them 'they can't get any help because we had to give all the golfers a break instead'. 

All else fails, elections work wonders!