To the relief of musicians and small arts venues across Canada, the federal immigration regulation imposed by the Harper Conservative Government, has been officially nixed.
In a bid to help slow the number temporary foreign workers coming into the country, the government implemented a work permit levy called a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It also affected foreign musicians who crossed the border to perform in Canadian bars and restaurants. Larger venues and concert halls were exempt from the tax, which lead to criticism that the fee unfairly penalized small and mid-sized businesses.
The $150 form and $275 processing fee affected international touring chamber musicians, bands, and soloists, some of who responded by dropping Canada from their tours altogether.
In a stunning reversal this week, Jason Kenney, the employment minister, and Chris Alexander, the immigration minister, have announced the tour tax will be officially eliminated.
Groups such as Music Canada, the Canadian Independent Music Association, the Canadian Council of Music Industry Associations and the Canadian Arts Presenting Association expressed praised for change of heart, stating the decision this week will undoubtedly improve the live music community across Canada.
Michael Vincent
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