Saskatchewan’s 14 Conservative Party MPs are demanding the federal Liberal government quit playing favourites when it comes to provincial carbon tax proposals.
In mid-July, the federal government rejected a carbon tax compliance proposal by the Saskatchewan government which includes a consumer rebate at the pumps.
In a July 20 letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, all 14 Conservative MPs, including Carlton Tail-Eagle Creek MP Kelly Block and Saskatoon-Grasswood MP Kevin Waugh, say the rejection is highly unfair.
They point out that a similar plan by New Brunswick, which also includes a consumer rebate, was accepted by the federal government and has been in place for several months.
“Mr. Trudeau, this is a double-standard that is completely unjust,” state the MPs in the letter. “One of the fundamental principles of confederation is the fair treatment of the provinces by the federal government.
“Denying our province the same benefits that you have granted to another sets a dangerous precedent.
“You are effectively saying that the people of Saskatchewan must bear the full impact of your tax, while people in New Brunswick are protected from its full effect.
“This is grossly unfair.”
The Saskatchewan MPs note that the federal government’s “excuse” that it is planning on “moving the goalposts” in 2023 to disallow New Brunswick’s plan at that time is completely illegitimate.
“At the very least, you should accept Saskatchewan’s plan until such time as you change the rules for all provinces,” state the MPs. “Instead, for the next year and a half, you are denying the people of this province the same benefits that the people of New Brunswick enjoy.”
The MPs, which represent all 14 ridings in the province, point out that the overwhelming majority of voters in Saskatchewan rejected the Liberal platform.
“We are calling on you to put a stop to the provincial favouritism, and accept Saskatchewan’s proposed implementation of your carbon tax,” stated the MPs in the letter. “Canada deserves a Prime Minister that unites Canadians, not one that sows division.”