Wotherspoon: Can’t the Premier walk and chew gum at the same time?
REGINA - Today, the Saskatchewan NDP’s motion for gas-tax relief was debated at the Legislature. Opposition members called on the Moe government to suspend the provincial policy that costs Saskatchewan people 15 cents per litre. The Moe government did not budge.
“I’m disappointed that the provincial government seems more interested in finger-pointing than actually rolling up its sleeves and helping people out. Christmas is approaching and families who have never struggled before are worried about covering the basics, let alone putting gifts under the tree,” said Official Opposition Leader Carla Beck. “All levels of government have a responsibility to focus on the issues keeping people up at night.”
Suspending the provincial gas tax for six months would decrease revenues by $225 million. Households would save approximately $356. The program would be reviewed after the six months.
Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador have already delivered gas-tax relief. Ontario announced late last month that gas relief will be extended to June 30, 2024. Manitoba has promised gas-tax relief come January 1, 2024. In survey after survey, Saskatchewan people report the highest levels of financial insecurity in Canada.
“The Moe government has expanded revenues significantly after raising power bills three times last year and expanding the PST in a historic way,” said Affordability Critic Trent Wotherspoon. “Ottawa should scrap the carbon tax and Premier Scott Moe should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time. The Premier has the power to commit to this today and save drivers 15 cents per litre.”
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