Government Listens to Opposition and Reverses Decision on Municipal Land Transfer Tax News Date

QUEEN’S PARK – The Ontario PC Caucus is pleased that today during Question Period, Municipal Affairs Minister Ted McMeekin announced that the Wynne Liberals will not extend the municipal land transfer tax following significant opposition from the Ontario PC Caucus, stakeholders and Ontarians.

“It appears the Liberals have agreed with the Ontario PC Caucus that there is no monopoly on a good idea,” said Leader of the Official Opposition Patrick Brown.  “I have promised that our Party will be the first to applaud the Government when they correct course and do what’s right, and I applaud Minister McMeekin for doing the right thing and supporting a decision that is in the best interests of Ontarians.”

“I would like to congratulate Ontario PC Deputy Leader and Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark for his ongoing efforts to give would-be home buyers a break,” added Leader Patrick Brown.  “Through the introduction of his motion Clark prevented an additional financial burden being put on the backs of young, hardworking families.”

Clark tabled a motion calling for the government not to extend the MLTT after it was revealed the government is planning to amend the Municipal Act to enable all municipalities to implement their own MLTT in addition to the provincial land transfer tax.

“The MLTT would have made Ontario one of the most uncompetitive tax jurisdictions in North America for buying a home, and would have had devastating consequences on Ontario’s economic activity and employment,” said MPP Steve Clark.  “I would like to thank OREA for all their hard work on this issue and for working alongside the Ontario PC Caucus in making Ontario more affordable.”