General Vance issues statement regarding proposed tax relief policy

After the Government of Canada’s announcement yesterday to revamp the tax relief policy for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members deployed on international named operations, the Chief of the Defence Staff, Gen. Jonathan Vance, issued a statement today in support of the new plan.

READ MORE: Government announces deployed CAF and police personnel to receive exemption from federal income taxes

“You are outstanding when deployed on international operations, and I am happy this plan will recognize that standard of excellence. We are well-respected all around the world for our professionalism, excellence, and training. By taking better care of you and your families, we will continue to be an effective, combat-ready force for many years to come,” said Gen. Vance in a statement. “Thank you for your continued dedication, professionalism, selflessness and courage.”

According to the plan, all members deployed on international operations, regardless of the hardship and risk score, will be exempted from federal income taxes.

The tax relief, which also applies to police officers deployed on international operational missions, will be up to and including the pay level of lieutenant colonel. Those above the rank of lieutenant colonel will have only a portion of their pay taxed.

The measure will be retroactive to Jan. 1 of this year.

In his statement, Vance assured that the plan would be implemented as soon as possible.