Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has written to B.C. Premier David Eby, urging him to postpone a planned 23% increase in British Columbia’s carbon tax on April 1. Poilievre’s request comes amidst concerns about the financial burden this hike would place on residents.
In response to Eby’s dismissal of his plea as a “baloney factory” campaign tactic, Poilievre criticized Eby’s management of the province, stating that many British Columbians struggle to afford basic necessities after years of NDP and Liberal governance.
Poilievre emphasized the economic strain that the carbon tax hike would impose, arguing that it would translate to an additional 18 cents per litre of fuel for consumers. He urged Eby to join seven other premiers in opposing the increase, asserting that Canadians cannot bear further tax burdens.
The Conservative leader criticized the carbon pricing system established by Trudeau, characterizing it as an imposition on provinces that compels them to accept escalating levies. However, Eby defended the province’s stance, stating that rejecting Poilievre’s suggestion would ensure greater financial returns for British Columbians compared to federal administration.
Poilievre reiterated his stance on the April 1 tax hike, labeling it “absolutely insane” given the current economic challenges, including soaring housing costs and inflation. He underscored the need for relief for residents across Canada instead of exacerbating financial strain with tax increases.
The carbon price hike, set to raise the tax to $80 per tonne from the current $65 per tonne, has drawn opposition from several premiers, including those from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and others.
Jesse Bartsoff, spokesperson for Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland’s office, defended the carbon pricing plan, citing it as the most cost-effective strategy to mitigate environmental impacts. Ottawa has also revamped its carbon pricing rebate program to provide clarity to Canadians about its purpose and benefits.
