Debates of March 15, 2018 (day 27)

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Written Question 9-18(3): Societies Eligibility for the Business Incentive Policy

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this is Societies Eligibility for the Business Incentive Policy. Would the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment please provide the following information?

It appears that the Business Incentive Policy (BIP) as is currently applied may compromise an incorporated society's right to "have all the powers, rights and immunities vested by law in a corporation," as provided by section 4(2) of the Societies Act. Please explain this possible infringement of a legal right by the Business Incentive Policy.

Some societies carry out small business activities, may hold a legitimate business license and meet the requirement of section 6(e) of the Business Incentive Policy. Please describe the process for such a society to become BIP-registered.

If the Minister is of the position that societies are not BIP-eligible, please provide options for a policy amendment to enable preference for incorporated societies to participate in sectors of our economy often neglected by currently registered small businesses.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Speaker: MR. SPEAKER

Masi. Written questions. Member for Yellowknife North.