432-01225 (Economy and finance)

We, the undersigned, RESIDENTS OF THE PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, draw the attention of the Government of Canada and the House of Commons to the following that:

The current CERS legislation does not allow rent subsidy for non-arm's length tenants. We have been in tourist retail business for 22 years, leasing 4 retail units from a Landlord who is a family member. We have 4 legal lease agreements and both the Landlord and tenant have their own corporations. The tenant pays market rent, has never missed a payment and has never received a concession on rent. We conduct our business relationship in a 100% arm's length manner. Both corporations pay corporate tax independent of one another. The tourist industry has been affected more than most businesses. 90% of our revenue comes from international travellers. Our business is falling through the cracks and we may fail to make it through the pandemic without the rent subsidy. Rent is our largest business expense.

Therefore, your petitioners request the Government of Canada and the House of Commons to please change this legislation so that businesses like ours qualify for the CERS rent subsidy.