New taxpayer watchdog to keep eye on CRA’s treatment of Canadians amid coronavirus

OTTAWA — The new federal taxpayers’ advocate says he plans to keep a close eye on how the Canada Revenue Agency treats Canadians feeling the financial pain from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Francois Boileau says the CRA has agreed to be understanding with Canadians as the agency shifts back to tax-collection mode after months of doling out emergency aid.

The taxpayers’ ombudsperson adds that he expects many people to feel pressure regardless, which may send more complaints to his office.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

So far, Boileau says the pandemic hasn’t harmed his office’s ability to respond to complaints from people who believe they have been treated unfairly by federal tax officials.

1:26 NDP MP questions why CERB retroactive rules appear to have changed

He also says he plans to reach out to marginalized groups who may feel too intimidated to simply engage with the CRA on tax issues.

Boileau took over the role of ombudsperson at the start of the month after more than a decade as Ontario’s French-language services commissioner.