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Chris Warkentin, Member of Parliament for Grande Prairie–Mackenzie, renewed his call for the Liberals to repeal their harmful drywall tax after the Canadian International Trade Tribunal released its report condemning it.

On September 6, 2016, the CBSA imposed a provisional duty on imports of gypsum board (drywall) from the United States into British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, the Yukon and Northwest Territories. These duties ranged from 94% – 276%.

“My Conservative colleagues and I were the only Members of Parliament representing the interests of their constituents by participating in the Tribunal’s public inquiry,” Warkentin noted. “We will always stand up for Canadian jobs, the Canadian economy, and oppose Liberal decisions that harm small businesses and communities.”

On January 4, 2017, the Canadian International Trade Tribunal made their ruling these duties are contrary to Canada’s economic interests, will substantially reduce competition, and cause significant harm to consumers of those goods or to businesses that use them.

“The Canadian International Trade Tribunal has recognized that the Liberal duties on drywall hurt Western Canada. The government should take the report’s recommendations seriously and act immediately,” urged Warkentin.

“With this new tax, Justin Trudeau and the Liberals continue to demonstrate that they are out of touch with Peace Country families,” Warkentin said. “Homebuilders, contractors, prospective home buyers, and first time homeowners can’t afford Trudeau’s agenda.”

“Hardworking families in the Peace Country should not have to pay more just to fill government coffers.”

For more information, please contact: 780-538-1677 or chris.warkentin.c1@parl.gc.ca.