Manitobans will continue to get a slight break at the pump.
Mark Carney has extended the fuel excise tax. The extension will run through January 31.
On February 1, tax returns at a 50% reduced rate.
Kris Sims is with the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. While she understands prices at the pump are still high, the extension of the fuel tax is a win.
"Credit where it's due. Prime Minister Mark Carney listened," said Sims. "We did a poll with Leger. Of those who had an opinion, more than 70% of Canadians said, 'Uh, we don't want a fuel tax hike, thanks so much though'. That's because people are fighting to afford basics. Things like fuel, food, housing. It's just astronomically expensive. I'm very proud of people stepping up."
The cut is currently saving drivers about $6 every time they fill up a sedan, about $7 for a minivan, and about $10 for a pick-up truck. The tax cut is 10 cents on gas and 4 cents on diesel.
"Now, that may not seem like much. When you think about it, say you fill up every week, you can get a roast chicken for $10," said Sims. "You can get almost two jugs of milk for $10. Those savings add up. If you're a family with two vehicles and you're working and commuting, the savings will be even greater."
On April 1, the tax cut will end.
"No, we're not okay with that. We did want to be fair. Give credit where it's due," added Sims. "We're really glad that Mark Carney listened; that's really good. He could have ignored people, but he didn't. But we don't want to see a fuel tax increase happen in the new year. Again, people can't afford it. They just can't."
Leading up to April 1, Sims encourages everyone to reach out to the prime minister's office with letters. That's what has happened, and Mark Carney listened.
