For Immediate Release
November 13, 2024
NL NDP Leader Jim Dinn (St. John’s Centre) is appalled, but not surprised, to see the Liberals vote against the NDP Private Member’s Resolution (PMR) calling for the removal of the provincial portion of HST from all forms of home heating. And the Conservatives, who say they represent the middle class, also voted against this tax break.
“We introduced this motion for every family, every person, who heats their home. It is appalling that the Liberals and Conservatives voted against this motion to help people cope with the cost of living crisis,” said Dinn.
Many residents struggle to keep up with heating bills, and the NL NDP argued that removing the provincial portion of the HST on heating would have provided meaningful, far-reaching, immediate financial relief.
“This was an opportunity for the government to show it’s in tune with the realities that families and seniors are facing,” said Dinn. “Instead, the Liberal Government continues to implement measures that do not encompass enough of the province or provide an inadequate one-time pay out to people, expecting that to alleviate the burden. People should not have to choose between keeping their homes warm and meeting their other basic needs.”
Dinn questioned the Minister of Finance on her argument that this cannot be done. He says it has been done before, and it can be done again, if there is political will.
“In 2011, the then-Conservative government listened to our call and lifted the 8% provincial portion of the HST on residential heat and light by introducing the Residential Energy Rebate (RER). A rebate for those heating their homes with oil is great, but what about the number of people in our province who use electricity, propane, or wood?” questioned Dinn. “Government can help more people in this province, but it doesn’t seem like they have the will to do that.
“Voting against tax relief on home heating proves that the Liberals and the Conservatives do not have a grasp on the reality people are facing when it comes to the affordability crisis. The NL NDP have real solutions to help the people of this province.”
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For further information, contact Stephanie Curran, Media and Communications Officer, NDP Caucus at 330-0328 (o), or stephaniecurran@gov.nl.ca
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