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Opposition Leader Gerry Reid says in light of further energy price increases
over the past several days, the time has come for government to establish a
tax relief program that will benefit all citizens of the province. Reid
suggests government should reduce or cap the tax on all petroleum products,
and eliminate the HST on electricity and home heating fuel before the colder
fall and winter weather arrives. "Once again, I am calling upon government
to help the people of the province deal with the increasing price of oil and
gas," said Mr. Reid. "The money this government is receiving from increased
oil prices and energy taxes continues to pile up at this government’s
doorstep, yet they are not willing to give any relief to the consumers who
are paying these extra taxes.
"This situation will only get worse as the weather gets colder. A rebate
program will help some citizens, but what is needed is a solution that will
help everyone. I call upon this government to implement some type of tax
relief that will benefit all consumers over the coming months. While prices
remain at such a high level, it is imperative that the unexpected profits
being received by government is given back to the people.
"Premier Williams and Minister Sullivan want the Opposition to be silent
on this issue and allow them to continue picking the pockets of every
Newfoundlander and Labradorian. We have asked this government for action on
this issue over the past several months, and we will continue these calls
until there is some type of action that will lessen the burden currently
being experienced by everyone in this province."
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