Harper joining forces to combat the underground economy

November 17, 2014 – Toronto, Ontario – Canada Revenue Agency

The Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, P.C., Q.C., M.P., Minister of National Revenue, today hosted the inaugural meeting of the new Underground Economy Advisory Committee. The Advisory Committee, comprised of representatives from key industry stakeholder organizations representing a broad cross-section of the Canadian business community and tax professions, is the first of its kind. The Advisory Committee will provide the Minister and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) with unprecedented direct access to industry perspectives and input to help inform the Government of Canada’s strategy for tackling the underground economy.

Combatting the underground economy is complex and requires a collaborative approach. The Government of Canada is taking a leadership role in bringing industry leaders and other partners together for the first time to tackle this important issue. The new Advisory Committee will strengthen the CRA’s working relationship with industry representatives, experts, and professional organizations and will complement the Agency’s engagement with other federal departments and provincial and territorial governments.

Industry stakeholders are uniquely positioned to understand and communicate to the public about the harm caused by the underground economy. They also provide a powerful and effective voice for the business community to help shape and focus government actions. The Minister’s Advisory Committee on the Underground Economy is a ground-breaking initiative that will provide a forum for these stakeholders to collaborate with the Government.

Collaborating with industry is one of the Government’s priorities to reduce the social acceptability of, and participation in, the underground economy. The CRA’s actions to fight the underground economy help reinforce the fairness and integrity of Canada’s tax system and aim to ensure a level playing field for all businesses and taxpayers.