The Deputy Prime Minister says the federal government is open to additional measures that make life more affordable.
Premier Doug Ford last week called on the feds to at least match a tax rebate on gasoline Ontario imposed Friday.
Chrystia Freeland says a number of initiatives are already in place.
“Those are very appropriately targeted at the most vulnerable. They are part of our AAA-rated fiscal framework. So it’s part of finding the balance between providing support and fiscal responsibility, which is the right thing at a time of high inflation,” says Freeland.
Freeland blames the Russian invasion of Ukraine for the high fuel costs.
“You know when we go to fill up our cars and trucks with gas. If you wanna get mad at someone, I would say first and foremost, get mad at Vladimir Putin and let’s continue to do what we’re doing as a country, which is helping the very brave people of Ukraine win that war.”
The federal government appears locked in on the carbon tax imposed on gasoline.
Freeland says that becomes a revenue-neutral measure with money collected from the price on pollution going back to Canadian families.
Cheques are expected to be sent out to Ontario residents this month.
Freeland says the price on pollution is also part of the transition toward a green economy.
