Durham College Professor Tom Marley and a group of Level 1 Industrial Mechanic Millwright apprenticeship students stand with Colin Carrie, MP for Oshawa, following his speech at the college’s Whitby campus on January 20. Carrie spoke to students about available tax credits in addition to participating in a roundtable discussion about local economic issues on behalf of the honourable Keith Ashfield, minister of National Revenue, minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and minister for the Atlantic Gateway.

February 16, 2011

Durham College students, faculty and staff members including Durham College President Don Lovisa gathered at the college’s Whitby campus on January 20 to hear Colin Carrie, MP for Oshawa, deliver a message about tax credits to students from the college’s Industrial Mechanic Millwright apprenticeship program. Carrie attended the event on behalf of the honourable Keith Ashfield, minister of National Revenue, minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and minister for the Atlantic Gateway.

While he spoke about economic issues benefiting the community at large, Carrie also focused on the various non-refundable credits and deductions available to students including tuition, education and textbook amounts as well the opportunity they have to claim interest paid on their student loans after graduation.

Of special interest to those in attendance was the news that newly employed tradespersons and apprentice mechanics can claim up to $500 toward the purchase of new tools.

“Students need to know this information,” said Will Mackie, an Industrial Mechanic Millwright apprenticeship program student. “It is very expensive to buy tools and equipment and any assistance is appreciated.”

Carrie also urged students to take advantage of the 120 tax incentives implemented by the current government.

Following his presentation, several local community and business leaders including Lovisa joined Carrie in a roundtable discussion on local economic issues. Designed to showcase the federal government’s commitment to reducing the tax burden on the public, the discussion was part of a countrywide series of economic consultations.