The CRFA expressed disappointment in the budget, saying it doesn’t adequately address hangover problems stemming from the HST implementation in B.C. and G20 summit in Toronto. “There’s not even an acknowledgement of the significant negative impact that these made-in-Ottawa events have had on our members,” says Garth Whyte, CRFA president and CEO.
The much-debated HST remains a key issue for CRFA representatives, who say a survey conducted last year revealed many B.C. restaurants felt the tax was hurting their bottom line. The CRFA estimates the G20 caused $84 million in lost sales in Toronto.
