(October 25, 2022, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Opposition House Leader and MHA for Conception Bay South, says Premier Andrew Furey failed to convince his Federal cousins that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians cannot afford to pay carbon tax on their home heating fuel.

“Heat is not a luxury. The Furey Liberals and their Federal cousins believe it is. The Premier has been vocal in his support for the Carbon Tax consistently. Four of the six the Federal Liberals voted on Monday in favour of adding carbon tax to home heating fuel – while the Premier couldn’t convince MP Jones to vote at all,” said Petten.

“The Premier touts his close relationship with his Federal cousins any chance he gets. But what did the people of Newfoundland and Labrador get from this relationship? A colder, more expensive winter. It’s just not good enough for the people of our province.”

Petten says punishing people for seeking heat in the winter is an unacceptable measure to take.

“Yesterday’s vote was a chance for Furey to demonstrate his concerned about the rising costs of living for seniors and families. Instead, Premier Furey failed in convincing the Liberals to vote down the Carbon Tax, meaning everyone will pay more for gasoline, diesel, and home heating fuel,” said Petten.

“At a time of extraordinary increases to the cost of living, it’s just not acceptable. The Premier needs to explain his solution to this issue. Firmly, but politely, worded letters to his Federal cousins won’t cut it. Premier, how do you expect our seniors to weather this winter?”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca