March 31, 2023

Newsletter for March 2023

Spring is finally here, and I am excited to share some updates with you. Our Liberal Government has released the federal budget for 2023, and it is all about making life more affordable for Canadians.

We know that the cost of living is a major challenge for many families. That's why our budget includes grocery rebates, affordable childcare, dental care, and enhancements to our healthcare system.

We are also investing in job creation and supporting small businesses across the country.

I visited India to promote trade and investment between our two countries. There are endless opportunities for Canadian businesses to benefit from a strong relationship. I am committed to inviting more companies to Canada to create new jobs.

I also recently visited the port in Prince Rupert. I was blown away by the tremendous work being done there to support our economy, international trade, and Canadian communities.

As your representative in Ottawa, I remain committed to working hard on your behalf. Let's welcome this new season with open arms and look forward to a brighter and more prosperous future for all Calgarians!

PARLIAMENTARY PURSUITS: Ottawa Update

Budget 2023: Affordability for All

Our latest federal budget aims to make life more affordable. We have introduced several measures, including the new Grocery Rebate, which can provide up to $467 for an eligible family of four.

In addition, we are covering the cost of dental care for millions of people and increasing financial assistance for students. We are also cracking down on hidden junk fees and predatory lenders while lowering credit card transaction fees for small businesses.

I am proud that our Liberal Government has presented a budget that will bring positive change to families living in Calgary.

You can read more about the budget here.

I visited Fruiticana with Immigration Minister Sean Fraser to discuss the new Grocery Rebate Program.

Embracing Diversity in Political Participation

As an MP representing one of Canada’s most diverse ridings, I was recently interviewed by The Hill Times. While it's important to ensure the integrity of our democratic process, we must also consider the potential consequences of our national discourse.

We can prioritize the integrity of our democratic institutions while encouraging participation and engagement from all community members, including new Canadians. We must ensure that our political process is transparent, accessible, and inclusive so that everyone can participate without fear of retribution or disenfranchisement.

It is our responsibility to support a fair and equitable political process that represents the views and values of all Canadians. If you want to learn more about this topic, I invite you to read the full article.

Photo credit: Andrew Meade, The Hill Times

Docked and Loaded: Transport Committee Visits Prince Rupert

I visited Prince Rupert with my colleagues from the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure, and Communities. We had productive meetings with Mayor Pond and Prince Rupert Port Authority representatives. Our discussions focused on our study of Large Port Infrastructure Expansion Projects in Canada.

We gained valuable insights that will help us work together to promote growth, innovation, and sustainability in Canada's transportation and trade sectors.

Here's a photo of a few of my colleagues and I in Prince Rupert.

TWEET OF THE MONTH: Holding Industry Accountable

You can read more about this situation here.

SKY’S THE LIMIT: Constituency Update

Have Your Say on Immigration

Immigration has been a fundamental part of our nation's growth, and its impact on our future is undeniable.

Our Liberal Government recognizes the importance of a diverse range of voices in shaping our immigration policies and programs. That's why we're calling on all Canadians to help shape our vision for a stronger, more vibrant Canada.

We need your input! To ensure every Canadian has a chance to have their say, we're launching a public survey. This is your chance to voice your opinions on how our immigration system can help build stronger communities across Canada.

The survey will only be open until April 27, 2023, so don't miss out on this opportunity to make your voice heard. Let's work together to shape the future of our great nation!

I attended a Mega Citizenship Ceremony for new Canadian citizens.

Calgary Minor Soccer Association Visit

PS Adam van Koeverden and I visited Calgary Minor Soccer Association and discussed the impact of sports on youth development. Adam is a Canadian Olympic Gold medalist and one of our finest Liberal representatives!

Sports provide a unique opportunity to cultivate a sense of belonging, encourage teamwork, and develop essential life skills. I will always support youth sports!

Me, Adam, and our friends at the Calgary Minor Soccer Association.

Affordable Housing for Seniors in Temple

I was joined by Minister Bill Blair for an awesome announcement.

Thanks to a Liberal Government contribution of over $18 million, 120 seniors now have the opportunity to live comfortably in beautiful Temple, Calgary.

These new units demonstrate our commitment to supporting our elders and ensuring their well-being as they continue to call Northeast Calgary home.

Read more here.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Tax Season 2023

What is the deadline for individuals to file and pay?


Online filing opens on February 20, 2023. The filing and payment deadline for individuals is April 30, 2023. The CRA will consider a return as filed on time if the CRA receives it, or it is postmarked, on or before Monday, May 1, 2023.  

A payment will be considered on time if the CRA receives it, or it is processed at a Canadian financial institution, on or before Monday, May 1, 2023. The deadline for contributing to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is March 1, 2023.


Can you still file on paper?


Yes. Those who filed a paper return last year should receive the 2022 income tax package automatically by February 20, 2023. Tax packages can be ordered online or by phone at 1-855-330-3305 (you should be ready to provide your Social Insurance Number).

It can take up to 10 business days to receive a tax package. Tax packages can also be viewed, downloaded, and printed. The CRA service standard for paper returns is to process them within eight weeks of receipt. The CRA encourages you to file electronically.


Who should I contact if I require additional assistance?


Do not hesitate to contact the CRA. Charlie, the CRA’s friendly chatbot, is always available to help with basic questions on income tax and benefit returns. You can also view your personal income tax and benefit information, and manage your tax affairs online, in CRA My Account at your convenience. If you require additional support, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Click here for more information.

Passport? No Problem! New Tracker Launched

Our Liberal Government just announced the launch of a new online Passport Application Status Checker.

We have learned important lessons from a challenging period last year. We not only restored the pre-pandemic processing timelines but have made lasting improvements to the passport program. We’ve set up passport delivery to be more reliable, more flexible, and more capable of serving Canadians effectively and efficiently for years to come.

Canadians who have applied for a passport can check the status of their application online with just a few clicks and some basic information. Visit Canada.ca/passport for more info.

Thank you for reading my March 2023 update. As always, stay in touch, and until next month!

George Chahal, M.P.

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