Smith promises one-time affordability payments of $100 for Albertans

The Canadian Taxpayers Federation, however, is calling on the Alberta government to cut the fuel tax to zero immediately instead of forcing taxpayers to apply for rebates.

“This government is not keeping its promise to cut fuel taxes next month and these $100 rebates are not enough to provide real relief at the pumps,” said Kris Sims, CTF Alberta Director, in a press release Wednesday. “Finance Minister Jason Nixon should start things off right in his new role and drop the Alberta fuel tax down to zero instead of playing games with rebates.”

Smith says reductions in gas taxes don’t ensure savings flow to consumers.

Naheed Nenshi, Leader of the Official Opposition of Alberta, issued the following statement in response:

“After months of denying that Alberta has a cost-of-living crisis, and just days after we presented a real affordability strategy, the Premier has sketched something on the back of a napkin that violates her own legislation on the gas tax and gives Albertans $100.

“While we welcome anything that puts money into Albertans’ pockets, this one-time stunt doesn’t address the real issues that have left 60 per cent of Albertans struggling to make ends meet.

“Today, Alberta’s New Democrats presented a real economic vision to grow the Alberta economy. It’s time for a real affordability strategy that will keep money in people’s pockets.”

(The Canadian Press, with files from rdnewsNOW)

by The Canadian Press

Smith promises one-time affordability payments of $100 for Albertans

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