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Dear XXX,
I am writing to thank you for signing the NDP petition to stop the HST. You have joined with tens of thousands of British Columbians from all walks of life and from every part of the province to oppose this regressive and punishing tax.
Over the last few months I have travelled to communities throughout BC - Kelowna, Kamloops, Penticton, Prince George, Burnaby, Surrey and Courtenay, to name just a few -- talking to British Columbians about the impact of the HST. Just this past weekend I joined with parents in Burnaby who told me that paying the HST on school supplies will stretch their family's budget even further. Restaurant owners and small business people tell me the HST will force them to lay off workers. And seniors on fixed incomes are worried about how they are going to pay their bills when already they have nothing left over at the end of the month.
British Columbians understand that our taxes pay for the things we value - health care, education, and strong social programs. But a regressive tax that shifts costs onto the back of families, seniors, and small business is just not fair. It hurts our economy and it makes life harder for those who can least afford it.
What's more, the BC Liberals did not tell the truth about the HST in the election. British Columbians went to the polls on the understanding that the BC Liberals opposed the HST. That's what they told voters. After the election the BC Liberals turned around and brought the HST in anyway. They tried to deceive you and in doing so they have generated anger across this province.
I believe that we can stop the HST. On rare occasions the BC Liberals have been forced to back down. When they tried to privatize the Coquihalla Highway, the public spoke with one voice and forced the government to change direction. And when the BC Liberals eliminated the independent officer responsible for child protection, public outrage led to the reappointment of a child and youth officer.
The government is feeling the heat, but we've got to keep up the pressure and keep up the fight. I encourage you to send the NDP petition to family and friends, to call your MLA, and come to forums and rallies being organized in your community.
I invite you to join me at a Rally to Stop the HST at noon on Saturday, September 19, 2009 at Canada Place in Vancouver. This will be an exciting event, with people from across the political spectrum joining together to send a message to the BC Liberals. And it will be followed by more events in communities throughout the province.
British Columbians believe strongly in fairness, shared responsibility and integrity. BC was built on those values. The HST, and the dishonest way the government brought it in, violates these fundamental principles. That's why British Columbians everywhere are joining in the fight to Stop the HST.
Thank you again for signing the NDP's Stop the HST petition. I look forward to seeing you soon.
Sincerely,
Carole James
P.S. If you would like more information about the NDP's stop the HST campaign, please visit our website. In addition to information about our campaign, you can learn more about the NDP, how to get involved, make a donation, or participate in your community.
