News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

Butler says shortcomings of government heating rebate program is further evidence of need for a comprehensive strategy

October 27, 2005

"This program does not come close to addressing the serious problems being faced by thousands of people around this province who are struggling to deal with high fuel prices," said Butler. "People who heat their homes with electricity are totally left out of the program and thousands of other middle income earners will be left out in the cold because of the qualification criteria. Government is raking in hundreds of millions in increased revenues because of high fuel prices and they should give more of a break to people who need it."

The Liberal MHA says he is also disappointed that government has not taken immediate action to assist the volunteer and not-for-profit sectors. "Groups that work with the most disadvantaged in our society are being severely impacted by high fuel prices and government does not seem willing to recognize this as a serious problem. I wrote the Minister earlier this month asking that she do an assessment of the impacts on these groups and offer some immediate assistance so the most vulnerable in our society do not have to bare the brunt of high fuel prices.

"Minister Burke has attempted to wash her hands clean of any responsibility for the impact of high fuel prices on these organizations. She has no understanding of the big picture. High fuel prices are affecting all sectors of the economy, including programs delivered by volunteer and community based organizations that serve the most vulnerable in society. At this point, government is not willing to recognize the seriousness of this problem and are not even in the process of creating a comprehensive action plan."

Media Contact:
Jeff Mackey
Caucus Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6427