Just in case you were not aware of one of the campaigns leading up to the G20 that is likely to have an impact on developing countries, I thought I would pass on this message that I have sent to John Ferguson for publication in the Monthly News and Information Briefing. Pope Francis while drawing attention to the plight of the world’s poor, pointed to tax evasion as a significant concern, saying "To all this we can add widespread corruption and self-serving tax evasion, which has taken on worldwide dimensions. The thirst for power and possessions knows no limits", Evangelii Gaudium, #56). He further added, "I beg the Lord to grant us more politicians who are genuinely disturbed by the state of society, the people, the lives of the poor.” Tax evasion is expected to be on the agenda of our political leaders at the G20 meeting in Australia in November. The Tax Justice Network – Australia, (TJN) has supported international efforts to have implemented a system of “Automatic Information Exchange” designed to combat tax evasion and provide fairer returns to developing countries. The TJN has postcards available, addressed to The Hon. George Brandis MP Attorney General, which can be sent as a way parishioners can show support for this reform, (copy attached).The card point out that tax dodging deprives developing countries of an estimated $160 billion a year, money that could provide schools and hospitals to lift people out of poverty. It is more than they collectively get in aid. The postcards are available from Mark Zirnsak, Director, Justice & International Mission, 130 Little Collins St Melbourne 3000, ph 03 9251 5265, m 0409 166 915, email Mark.Zirnsak@victas.uca.org.au. I believe it is very much in line with the current Social Justice Statement, Lazarus at our Gate. (The other campaign leading up to the G20 is that of the Public What You Pay movement on financial transparency in the industries of oil, gas and minerals. More on this to come). Hoping you have had a good Christmas and are looking forward to a successful 2014. Warmest regards, Phil (Convenor – SJ Around the Bay). _____________________________________________________________________________ |
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