|
Anna Thistle, Opposition
Critic for Finance and Treasury Board and MHA for the District of Grand
Falls-Buchans, says the lack of a home heating fuel rebate for low income
earners will hurt those on fixed incomes. Thistle was responding to a letter
received from the Minister of Finance stating that government may not
continue the home heating fuel rebate initiated by the Liberal government in
2001.
"As the price of home heating fuel continues to
climb, it is imperative for this government to continue the home heating
fuel rebate for low income earners," said Ms. Thistle. "Higher
fuel prices hurt those people living on fixed incomes. This means that these
people, many of whom are senior citizens, will have less money to spend on
other essential items such as food.
"The wholesale price of crude oil is nearly
double what it was when the fuel rebate program was first instituted, and
prices are projected to continue to increase throughout this winter season.
Without assistance, low income earners cannot afford heating oil prices
based on a $36 barrel of oil."
The Liberal MHA is calling on Loyola Sullivan to give
this program the same priority that he did when the issue was debated in the
House of Assembly March 26, 2003. The Blue Book also promised to include the
consideration of the unique financial situation of low income earners when
making decisions.
"The current Minister of Finance proposed a
Private Members Motion in the House of Assembly in March 2003. Mr. Sullivan
voiced his support for a permanent heating fuel rebate program at that time
and proposed expanding the program to include people who heat their homes
using other sources such as wood and electricity.
"Low income families need answers on this
important program and I call upon government to provide their position on
this immediately." |