St. John’s, N.L.: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is calling on Premier Andrew Furey to reduce the sales tax in Newfoundland and Labrador, following recent commitments from Nova Scotia leaders to cut the HST in their province.

“Newfoundlanders and Labradorians need tax relief and Furey must follow the lead of both the Progressive Conservative and Liberal leaders in Nova Scotia by pledging to reduce the sales tax,” said Devin Drover, CTF Atlantic Director. “A two percentage-point cut in the HST would save the average Newfoundland and Labrador household more than $700 a year.”

Nova Scotia Progressive Conservative Premier Tim Houston and Liberal Leader Zach Churchill both announced plans to lower the HST next year if they win this month’s provincial election.

The CTF advocated for an HST cut in its most recent pre-budget submission and launched a petition calling on Furey to cut sales taxes.

“Whether families are struggling to replace an old appliance or looking to buy a new car, an HST cut would have a huge impact on the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians,” Drover said.

Newfoundland and Labrador is currently tied with New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island for the highest sales tax rate in Atlantic Canada.