(March 10, 2022) – Tony Wakeham, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Finance and MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port, says once again the Liberal government is slow to act on the cost of living, while other provinces show leadership to help their residents.

“In Prince Edward Island, a direct payment will be delivered to low-income families who are having trouble making ends meet at prices skyrocket. In Quebec, the government is also exploring direct cheque payments to residents. In Alberta, the gas tax is being slashed to help offset the cost of living. In Nova Scotia, ‘everything is on the table’ to assist their residents, according to their Premier,” said Wakeham.

“In Newfoundland and Labrador, Minister Coady and Premier Furey say there’s nothing they can do. Well, other provinces in Canada are proving them wrong. It’s not that they can’t do anything, it’s that they refuse to help the people of Newfoundland and Labrador who need it the most.”

Wakeham says the spike in oil prices means government will make more revenues from oil and gas – and a portion of that money should go directly to supporting the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The people of Newfoundland and Labrador need action from their government. Whether it’s direct payments other provinces are doing, whether it’s a cut to the gas tax or the HST. There has never been a better time for a home heating fuel rebate program to help those who need it most,” said Wakeham.

“All the people of Newfoundland and Labrador are asking for is some relief, some evidence the Liberal government has their back. Instead, they’re getting empty words and vague platitudes while other provinces take action. Minister Coady, what’s your excuse now?”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca