Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling for federal gas taxes to be scrapped for the rest of this distressed year of ’16. He argued that the tax holiday may bring immediate relief to drivers facing surging fuel prices.
In a press release shared on Thursday, 2 April ’26, the opposition leader shared that the move may save a family of 4 an average of around USD 864 (CAD 1,200) for the rest of the year.
Canadians deserve affordable fuel & food, added Poilievre. Seniors should be able to enjoy a worry-free drive to see grandchildren. Likewise, parents should not stress about filling the minivan for hockey practice; besides, workers should be able to fill their trucks stress-free.
He added that this was the rationale for why conservatives call for zero tax on gas for the rest of the year.
Conservatives opined that the temporary tax cut could drop prices at the pump by as much as 25 cents a liter.
Poilievre referred to countries like Ireland, Spain, and Australia, where each of these countries has cut fuel taxes after prices spiked over the Middle East conflict, where the U.S. and Israel are collaborating against Iran.
Poilievre further added that the plan would eliminate the fuel excise tax. Also, the fuel GST (Goods and Services Tax) is in addition to the clean fuel charge. He argued that lower fuel prices may also reduce the cost of food, besides other goods transported by truck.
According to the party, the tax cuts may cost the federal government USD 3.78 (CAD 5.25) billion this year. They contended that the plan would fund itself by reducing federal spending in other sectors. The proposal includes the gun buyback program, besides foreign aid. Additionally, the plan involves cancelling the multibillion-dollar high-speed rail project between Toronto and Quebec City.
Speaking to reporters in Ottawa on Thursday morning, 2 April, Poilievre was asked about the financial feasibility of the plan.
When asked if he would consider any movement on gas taxes a success, Poilievre responded, saying ‘the lower the better’.
