Gas rate hike panned
Saskatchewan’s official opposition is questioning the provincial government’s priorities after a 27 per cent natural gas hike received approval last week.
SaskEnergy, which supplies natural gas to almost all of Saskatchewan, can now charge an average of $9.57 more to residential customers, according to CTV.
The increase comes on the heels of the province’s decision to raise SaskPower rates by 10.5 per cent, as well as boosts to SGI vehicle insurance and SaskTel internet service.
“More and more, I’m hearing from families that the cost of living is forcing them to make tough decisions at the end of the month,” NDP Deputy Leader Trent Wotherspoon said in a news release. “Young people are struggling to pay today’s high rent prices and higher tuition prices at the same time. Too many seniors can no longer manage both the heating bill and the rent.
“All while the government just keeps asking us all to pay extra – for camping fees in provincial parks, for university tuition, for basic supplies in seniors care and more. The government just doesn’t get the everyday reality for many Saskatchewan families.”
The Wall government has defended its handling of Crown corporations and repeatedly stressed the growing strength of Saskatchewan’s economy.
