that a survey of its members shows that they are owed a total of $173 million -- a 114 per cent increase since a similar survey was done last spring.
"A lot of the oil and gas is doing their fair part as citizens, but we need legislation to force others to pay much like everybody else has to pay," said Kemmere. Industry says the way taxes are assessed is driving companies out of business. Properties are assessed by the provincial government, which evaluates them on replacement cost and not on market value, said Ben Brunnen, vice-president of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers.
Those shut-in wells often end up abandoned and unreclaimed after a bankruptcy, said Brunnen, who suggested some municipalities are going to have to accept less oil and gas revenue. McLauchlin, also an oilpatch consultant, said about 40 per cent of unpaid taxes are from severely distressed companies in an industry hard and widely hit by lower resource prices. The rest of the shortfall is from companies that continue to operate but don't pay.
The province initially reimbursed municipalities for the cuts. But the municipalities say that program has ended and they've been left to absorb the loss.
Good, keep it coming. collapsitarian shrug
Mr. Brunnen’s excuse and I quote “got assets that are older and not as productive or economic” is the reason his industry is not paying 173 million in back taxes to Alberta municipalities. As Premier Mr. Kenney “grow a pair”
No surprises here
Unpaid taxes. 1.3 million litres in dead duck tailings lakes, abandoned wells and they are moving out quietly. Royalties have been cut from 50% to 1% which means they are taking our oil for free.
If they can i wamt too ontario gov sucks and federal government sucks... one gives themselves pay raises 14% and leave trachers with 1%. The other juat gives money away like its an atm machine... stop the abuse stop paying taxes