This Saturday, December 14, saw the coming into force of the Tax Holiday for All Canadians Act, passed by the House of Commons on December 3. Specifically, it grants a tax vacation on certain products until February 15. The subject inspired this week's poll question for the Neomedia team. 

The federal government decided to pass this law in response to inflation and interest rates, which have risen sharply in recent months. 

“Inflation is back at 2% and interest rates have been lowered four times this year. However, the holiday season remains a high-spending time for many Canadian families. With the new tax vacation on groceries and holiday spending, we're reducing the cost of living at a time when people need a hand the most,” said Canada's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland earlier in December. 

This new tax vacation will apply to the following products:

- prepared foods, such as vegetable trays, salads and prepared meals, and sandwiches;
- restaurant meals, whether in the dining room, to go or for delivery;
- snacks, including chips, candy and candy bars;
- beer, wine and cider;
- prepared alcoholic beverages containing less than 7% alcohol;
- children's clothing and footwear, car seats and diapers;
- children's games, such as board games, dolls and video game consoles;
- books, printed newspapers and puzzles for all ages;
- Christmas trees and similar ornaments.

Last week's survey question was as follows: Does the tax vacation encourage you to spend more at affected stores? 

The answer choices were: 

- Yes, absolutely: 0%; 

- Yes, because these are products I buy regularly: 3.2%; 

- Yes, I will do my part to support the businesses affected: 3.2%; 

- No, it's not a big enough incentive: 19.4%. 

- No, because I find this measure useless: 74, 2%.  

What's your opinion on the question? Take the survey by clicking on this link.