January 4, 2005
For Immediate Release

Don’t let up with disaster relief donations
Barrett calls on Feds to extend tax write-off date past Jan. 11

Queen’s Park – Over a week after we in Haldimand, Norfolk and Brant Counties first directed our efforts towards supporting the relief effort in South Asia, MPP Barrett says now is not the time to let up.

Barrett is renewing a call for donations for disaster victims as the scope of the relief effort continues to grow.

“Canadians right across this country stepped up to the plate with donations immediately – our continued support will be essential in helping to support an enormous relief effort that is still in it’s early days,” said Barrett. “Given the slow initial response of the federal government I am asking that government assist Canadians to donate – specifically by extending the January 11th date to qualify for tax relief for the 2004 taxation year.”

“The victims of this disaster have had the rug pulled from under them, leaving them jobless, homeless and without food – they need our support both now and in the future,” Barrett stressed. “Of course any donations made after the tax write-off date would qualify for the 2005 tax year.

Those wishing to volunteer or make contributions are encouraged to contact various relief agencies and community based groups. To volunteer call 1-888-886-3399. A list of organizations working in the disaster stricken areas is available on the Canadian Government web site at www.canada.gc.ca, and at Barrett’s office.

Canadians trying to reach relatives or friends in the affected areas should contact MPP Barrett at 519-428-0446 or contact their local federal MP.
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For more information please contact MPP Toby Barrett at: 519-428-0446, 905-765-8413 or
1-800-903-8629