Saskatchewan government supports ending federal consumer carbon tax

The Saskatchewan government is pleased with the federal decision to eliminate the consumer carbon tax but asserts that the entire pricing scheme should be scrapped. They call for the federal government to remove the other half of the carbon tax, which affects industries and consumers indirectly. On March 15, Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered the removal of the consumer carbon tax starting April 1. He also confirmed that carbon rebates for the month would proceed as planned. Premier Scott Moe has consistently opposed the federal carbon program since it began in 2019 and participated in a failed court challenge against it. The Saskatchewan NDP welcomed the tax's end. Leader Carla Beck expressed relief, stating "Great. Finally," and emphasized the need for the province to focus on future investments. She wants Saskatchewan to reduce its dependency on the U.S. and explore more global markets. Darcy Pawlik, head of the Wheat Growers Association, has always opposed the federal carbon pricing. He expressed concern that any future tax that raises production costs will ultimately lead to higher food prices. Pawlik believes the carbon pricing has negatively impacted food producers and is cautious about what changes may come next.