Can Health Canada Freeze My Bank Account
Hi, I was stopped at the airport by Health Canada and I refuse their hotel and the test pcr, I took one just before my flight to Canada, so they gave me fines 5000.00 per day =15000.00 + 5000.00 for the pcr test + 5000.00 because I removed my mask 2 minutes to make a phone call to my transport so that I am prisoner of health Canada so 25000.00 + after 8 days they call me to ask for another pcr test I refuse so it’s another 5000.00 fine so 30000.00 dollar, now I am afraid they will freeze my bank account and take all my savings, what do you suggest me to do thanks.
Hello there – thank you for your question. Anytime you have a financial situation, there are a few options you should consider:
Option 1: Consider working with your creditors. If you aren’t able to pay the debt in full, you may be able to negotiate with your creditors, and might be able to work out payments that they are willing to accept. Alternatively, they may accept less that you owe, if you are able to make a lump sum payment. Given the legalities involved with the COVID-19 fines, you may wish to consult with a lawyer who can best represent your interests, and negotiate with Health Canada.
Option 2: Consult with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. Trustees are debt experts, and can advise you on your options to deal with the debt. If this debt is your only debt, you might consider a Consumer Proposal, to pay off the debt, and stop interest from accumulating. A Consumer Proposal will break the amount owed into monthly payments, which can be pre-paid at any point. A Trustee could also give you advice on the benefits and consequences of bankruptcy. It is important to note that fines and penalties, such as the ones you are asking about, would survive through a bankruptcy, and so it may be that is not the right option for you. However, as each situation is unique, a Trustee will provide you with a consultation to explain the impact on your assets, such as your savings account.
As for your question about the bank account, every province and territory in Canada has a different list of assets which creditors can ‘attach to’, or take. Creditors in every jurisdiction in Canada have options to enforce their debt, such as obtaining a judgment from Court which enables wage garnishments and forced liquidation of assets. In addition, although it is rare, creditors may consider petitioning a debtor into bankruptcy if they feel there is a benefit in doing so, such as if they suspect someone is hiding assets.
In your case, I would suggest talking with a Licensed Insolvency Trustee to consider your options in dealing with the debt. The Trustee would be able to provide you with an understanding of whether your savings are at risk, given your province of residence, and the nature of your savings.