CRA Strike Could Impact Small Business

The potential strike by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) unionized workers over a 33 per cent raise over three years poses a threat to small businesses that rely on CRA services and tax guidance every day, says the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). “The timing couldn't be worse. The potential strike would create additional uncertainty, especially in the middle of tax season. With certain CRA services being delayed or unavailable during a labour disruption, we worry that many small businesses may not be able to get answers in a timely manner or to submit their tax payment on time,” says Dan Kelly, CFIB president. The adjustment and pay raise the Public Service Alliance of Canada – Union of Taxation Employees (PSAC-UTE) is seeking would represent a 33 per cent wage increase over three years. This could cost taxpayers close to a $1 billion to pay just for the wage increase. And with PSAC already signalling a broader potential strike of over 100,000 workers, the impact to small businesses and taxpayers could be much greater. CFIB is calling for a quick resolution in order to avoid the negative impacts of a strike.