News Release
November 24, 2005

Anderson’s junior hockey bill moves forward

OTTAWA – David L. Anderson, Member of Parliament for Cypress Hills-Grasslands (SK), appeared before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance this week to make a presentation regarding Bill C-285, his Private Members’ Bill regarding junior hockey and amateur athletes. Bill C-285 has been through Second Reading in the House and is now being reviewed by the Finance Committee before being sent back to Parliament for a final reading and vote.

“The presentation went very well,” stated Anderson. “I think that the members of the committee understood the reason why I brought this bill forward and how important it is to our junior hockey teams and to amateur athletes in general. The bill was well-received and the committee members seemed to indicate a willingness to work towards its passage.”

Bill C-285 would exclude up to $8,000 per year received by an athlete from a non-profit club, society or association (operated exclusively for the purpose of improving athletic performance and promoting amateur sport) from being considered “income.” This would prevent amateur athletes from being taxed on monies which allow them to pursue athletics. Anderson introduced the bill after witnessing what he believes to be unwarranted and unfair audits of Tier II junior hockey teams in Saskatchewan.

“These young players are just trying to do what they love – play hockey. These Tier II junior hockey teams are especially dear to the communities in which they exist,” continued Anderson, “and I want to help these community-owned teams and their players to survive. I think this bill is a step in the right direction.”

The Finance Committee heard testimony from Anderson and Finance Department officials during their November 22nd meeting. The committee members will now discuss the bill and propose any amendments before reporting the bill back to Parliament to be read for a final time and then be voted on.

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