Prince George, B.C. – The Minister of National Revenue, Gail Shea, joined Prince George Peace River M.P Bob Zimmer, at the Pineview Firehall yesterday to promote the new, non-refundable tax credit for volunteer firefighters.

 

"Every day in Canada, almost 85,000 brave men and women are ready to put their own lives at risk to protect the lives and property of their friends, neighbours, and even perfect strangers. Our Government recognizes these efforts and is proud to have introduced the Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit," said Minister Shea.

 

The non-refundable tax credit is available to any volunteer firefighter who serves at least 200 hours per year at one or more fire departments beginning on January 1, 2011.

 

Services that make up those 200 hours include responding to and being on call for firefighting and other emergencies, attending meetings at the fire department, and taking courses in preventing and putting out fires. When an eligible firefighter claims the credit, they can reduce income taxes they have paid or will owe at tax time by as much as $450.