Saskatchewan NDP calls for removal of PST for restaurants, children’s clothing | Canadian

The Saskatchewan NDP are once again urging the provincial government to look at the cost of living for residents in the province.

“It’s been nearly six months that we’ve been calling on this government to act on the generational affordability crisis crippling this province and impacting so many families during what should be a summer of fun and enjoyment,” the Sask. NDP economic critic Aleana Young said.

As inflation brings the price of fuel, groceries and utilities up for everyone, the Sask. NDP is calling for three big changes from the provincial government to help with the cost of living.

“Saskatchewan people are facing this serious hardship and need and deserve relief,” said NDP MLA Trent Wotherspoon.

The first change they want to see is at the pumps.

“We’re calling on the government to suspend the fuel tax,” said Wotherspoon, noting the 15 cents a litre reduction that other provinces have implemented.

The NDP is also calling for a change to how families are charged for food and clothing.

Trending Stories

• Anne Heche in coma following car crash, remains in critical condition

• Experts warn ArriveCAN app could be violating constitutionally protected rights

“We’re calling the government to scrap the PST on restaurants and children’s clothing,” said Wotherspoon.

The other big point of discussion in the rising living costs has been energy consumption and energy rates. Young pointed to the rising taxes and more specifically, the increase in cost for both SaskPower and SaskEnergy in the province.

“What makes Saskatchewan unique is the fact that we have publicly owned Crown utilities,” Young said. “The government has the ability to use our Crown corporations to make life more affordable.

“What we are calling on the government to do today, is to immediately rebate the $22 million dividend they stripped from SaskEnergy and to commit to quarterly reviews of utility rates like other provinces in Canada are doing.”

Global News reached out to the Government of Saskatchewan for comment on the requests from the Sask NDP but have not yet received a response.

However, in a statement late last week on the affordability crisis, the government stated the following:

• The Government of Saskatchewan understands that inflationary pressure is creating a challenge for businesses in our province.
• Premier Scott Moe and Finance Minister Donna Harpauer have both indicated that as we near the end of the first quarter, we will be looking at approaches that will benefit all Saskatchewan people.
• It is worth noting that Saskatchewan has among the lowest small business tax rate in Canada, with the highest threshold.
• In regards to the recent SaskPower rate increase, for small commercial customers, SaskPower has calculated an increase of $15/month.