Sask. NDP promises to cut PST from children’s clothing

Carla Beck, Leader of the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party (NDP) is making a new promise to families to remove the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) from children’s clothing if elected.

Beck said this would save families all across the province millions of dollars.

“This decision will save parents, grandparents, and caregivers more than $20 million every year,” said Beck.

Beck said children’s clothing is not a luxury, it is a necessity.

If elected this tax break would come into effect just ahead of when families begin Christmas shopping according to Beck.

Beck said this is just another way to improve affordability in Saskatchewan.

“This is a promise built with Saskatchewan people in mind,” said Beck. “We understand affordability is important to them and we will continue to offer relief to Saskatchewan families.”

Beck said they will continue to invest in services families need.

Beck said Angus Reid polling shows Saskatchewan families are struggling more than any other province.

“We’ve had discussions with parents who are staying up at night wondering how they’re going to pay for their children’s activities,” said Beck.

Removing this tax from children’s clothes wouldn’t mean an increase in other funds, according to Beck.

“This is not a problem with revenue in our province,” said Beck. “This is a problem with priorities, and it’s a problem with mismanagement.”

Beck said that families have seen a 40 per cent increase in the PST since Scott Moe came into power.