Candidates call for monitoring, in light of high gas prices
By Chris Simon

Several local federal election candidates have called for the monitoring of gasoline prices by the Canadian government.

The statements come after gas prices increased by between 12 and 15 cents per litre at stations throughout the area late last week. At its peak, local prices were hovering at about $1.38 per litre.

"Before you start regulating, you have to know the facts," said York — Simcoe Liberal candidate Judith Moses. "We do need some kind of national monitoring agency that will look into the facts; why prices are rising so much in one day, why there is so much inconsistency. I don't know what the issue is. We have to have a very distinguished, knowledgebased body that is going to give Canadians the facts and look at the options to best deal with it."

"I'm amazed and appalled by the jump in prices," she added.

The increases have been blamed on the closure of oil refineries caused by Hurricane Ike.

However, others say the increases are unwarranted.

"There is no reason for an overnight rise in gas prices," said New Democrat candidate Sylvia Gerl. "The gas is in the tank under the pumps. The only thing that is effecting that price is the speculation in the market. We need to move into a market that runs on something other than petroleum, there has to be changes made. People are willing and able to make the changes; just show us how. We need a plan targeting certain sectors, to make sure we are moving into a more sustainable future. Oil and gas prices will rise as they become more scarce."

York — Simcoe MP and Conservative candidate Peter Van Loan said the federal government has launched an investigation into price collusion in Quebec.

"Obviously we're concerned," he said.

"We have seen some evidence of collusion, and we, as a government, have launched the first prosecution for price fixing in over three decades in Quebec."

But the Liberals' proposed Green Shift carbon tax would also increase gasoline prices, said Van Loan.

"If people are concerned about energy prices, what would be the impact of a brand new carbon tax on diesel fuel, hydro and heat?" He said. "(Liberal Leader Stephane) Dion thinks the prices should go up, we think they should go down."

Others say a complete review of taxation is necessary. If elected to govern, the Christian Heritage Party would eliminate the current income added consumer fees, said candidate Vicki Gunn.

"We're looking at a totally different approach to taxation, which would effect gas taxes," she said.

"We're looking at getting rid of income tax, which penalizes people for getting out and working.

We would like to see a straight consumer tax, which would cover gas and everything else outside of food and necessities. It would cut down on the taxes upon taxes, but it would also mean the taxpayer has control over how much taxes are going to be paid. It benefits the poor, and encourages people to be industrious."

Several attempts to contact Green Party candidate John Dewar were unsuccessful.