(September 8, 2022, St. John’s) – Tony Wakeham, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Finance and MHA for Stephenville-Port au Port, says it’s outrageous that it’s now been six months without action since the Furey Liberals grudgingly promised a home heating fuel rebate. The rebate was intended to help seniors and families still reeling from last winter’s costs and desperate for a lifeline with another winter approaching, yet the Liberal Government refuses to introduce the program.

“How long is it going to take the Furey government to recognize this crisis for what it is? The Liberal government just doesn’t seem to understand or care how desperate many families are,” said Wakeham.

“With thousands of families struggling to pay their food, rent, heat and power bills, the Liberals have no excuse for dragging their heels on relief. How can they boast about offering the most generous relief program in the country when they are unable to get the money out the door to the people in need?

“Seniors and those on fixed incomes are already struggling to deal with the costs from last year. The longer the wait, the harder it will be for vulnerable people to make ends meet. The Liberal Government apparently needs to be reminded that Newfoundland and Labrador will face another winter soon,” said Wakeham.

“Is there anyone around the Cabinet table who has an awareness of what seniors and families are facing with another winter coming on and inflation running out of control?”

Wakeham says it’s clear the Liberal Government is only interested in increasing the cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“With their Sugar Tax and signs of future Carbon Tax increases, including a Carbon Tax on Home Heating Fuel, the Liberal Government is quick to take money out of your pocket. When it comes to supporting our province and putting money back in people’s pockets, they’re awfully slow,” said Wakeham.

“The planned Carbon Tax increases and suggestions that Carbon Tax could be added to Home Heating Fuel will make it even harder for people to live here – frankly it’s unacceptable. It’s fine for the Premier to write the Federal Minister a letter, but words are not enough. What tangible actions are the Liberals taking to ensure that seniors do not have to choose between heat and food again this year?

“The Liberal government must learn from their mistakes and take swift action to ensure that seniors and families are not left in the cold again during the upcoming winter.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca