Understanding this will empower consumers to demand lower prices from businesses that would see their costs substantially reduced because of our tax reform package.

We know there will be a transition period. So starting in June 2010, Ontario sales tax transition benefits would be sent out, totalling up to $1,000 tax free for eligible families and $300 tax free for eligible individuals.

Some of these changes are not easy. But they are needed.

The way I see it, we have a choice. We can refuse to fix what’s broken, resign ourselves to the idea that Ontario will be less competitive, and see services that people rely on – like universal health care – suffer because of it. Or we can embrace change and do what it takes to build a stronger Ontario.

John Wilkinson, Minister of Revenue

Keywords: HST