Minister's Message

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) directly touches the lives of all Canadians, not only through the collection of income taxes and the administration of benefits on behalf of the federal, provincial and territorial governments, but also in providing services to small businesses.

The creation of the Action Task Force on Small Business Issues in 2006 and the resulting measures are an indication of our determination to support small businesses which are recognized as an integral part of the Canadian economy. Our actions are clearly aimed at minimizing, as much as possible, their burden related to compliance with tax laws and related obligations.

As Minister of National Revenue, I am proud to lead the delivery of tax programs and services to Canadians and the continual improvement of these programs to contribute to small business competitiveness.

In addition to responding to the CRA's commitment to implement the recommendations made by the Action Task Force, the preparation of this benchmark report is the result of the Performance Measurement Framework for Compliance Burden Reduction and creates a baseline for adopting a systemic approach to reducing the burden on small businesses.

Through this report, we express the CRA's ongoing desire to make the professionalism and dedication of its employees worthy of the trust of individuals and small businesses.

I can assure you that the CRA will implement tools to demonstrate progress in reducing the burden and to provide small businesses with the support essential for competitiveness.

The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of National Revenue