The Unfairness of CERB Clawbacks: A Personal Struggle

Bob Hamilton is the current Commissioner of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), responsible for overseeing the agency's operations and ensuring compliance with tax laws and benefit programs. The CRA's actions can often feel unfair, especially when individuals face demands to repay benefits like the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) amidst challenging personal circumstances【9†source】 

The Unfairness of CERB Clawbacks: A Personal Struggle

As a 62-year-old Canadian, I've been struggling to find stable employment while navigating the challenges of an unfair tax system. Last year, and again this year, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has demanded that I repay CERB funds. I firmly disagree with this demand, and it's time to voice my frustration.

A Personal Struggle

Despite my relentless job search, finding work has been a monumental challenge. Meanwhile, our province welcomes 10,000 immigrants each month, further intensifying competition in the job market. Last summer, I endured a grueling four-hour daily commute for a job that ultimately wore me down, leading to reduced work hours.

 The Clawback

As an older worker, I receive the Older Workers Benefit—a mere $254. This benefit is a small relief, but this year, the CRA decided to take it to repay CERB. This is not just an inconvenience; it's a stark injustice. How can it be fair that those who have already struggled to make ends meet are penalized further?

 The Bigger Picture

The unfairness doesn't stop with me. The system seems rigged to favor those in power, while ordinary citizens like myself are left to fend for ourselves. Justin Trudeau and the Canadian government need to address this systemic issue. We must question how non-profits and charities, supposedly working for the public good, allow their executives to draw exorbitant salaries while the vulnerable are left without support.

 A Call for Justice

There is no justice in British Columbia. Organizations like the Justice Institute of British Columbia, Canada Without Poverty, and the Homelessness Services Association of BC must step up and advocate for fairness. It's high time that the CRA, under Bob Hamilton's leadership, reevaluates its approach and stops these unjust clawbacks.

Join the Conversation

I urge everyone to raise their voices against this injustice. Share your stories, spread the word, and let our leaders know that we demand fairness. Use hashtags like #NoJustice and #CerbClawBack to amplify our collective struggle. Together, we can make a difference.

Call to Action:

Reach out to your local representatives and support organizations advocating for change:

- David Eby

- Elizabeth May

- United Nations Human Rights

Let's stand united against this unfair system. My mother always taught me that life isn't fair, and it seems she was right. But together, we can strive to make it a little bit fairer.