A Liberal government memo obtained through the Freedom of Information Act has confirmed the HST on gasoline, hydro, and home heating is making life more expensive for Ontario families, according to NDP Leader Andrea Horwath.
“Dalton McGuinty’s HST on gas, home heating, and hydro is unfair and takes at least $1.6-billion out of already-stretched family budgets,” said Horwath. “That’s $350 from every household in Ontario.”
The 2009 document obtained from the Ministry of Finance shows the government expects to raise $1.6-billion from the HST on electricity, natural gas and gasoline.
Horwath noted that since the memo was written, prices for gasoline and electricity have increased significantly. For example, electricity rates are set to climb 50% over five years, and gas prices are now at a two-year high.
“With every increase in electricity and gas prices, families pay more,” said Horwath, noting that Ontaro Power Generation is requesting a 6% increase in rates.
“Families are struggling to pay the bills. It’s time to give families a much needed break by taking the HST off hydro and home heating.”
