Dalton McGuinty’s Power Grab Biggest Threat to Consumer Protection in Ontario

(Queen’s Park) – Harinder Takhar, Minister of Small Business and Consumer Services, rendered himself useless during Question Period today by refusing to protect consumers as a result of Dalton McGuinty’s power grabbing Green Energy Act.

PC Consumer Services Critic Lisa MacLeod questioned the Minister why he would not stand up for consumers so Ontarians will not face skyrocketing energy prices and massive government intrusion.  Ironically, the Minister did not stand up for consumers or for the question.

“This is the biggest threat to consumer protection in the provinces’ history,” stated MacLeod.  “More taxes, more government bureaucrats and more government intrusion onto real property.  How can any of those be good for Ontario consumers?”

Dalton McGuinty’s power grab bill will have catastrophic consequences for Ontario’s consumers:

Energy Bills could rise as high as 30% Home energy audits will cost homeowners an extra $300 if they choose to sell their homeConsumer choice will be eliminated in favour of the Minister picking of energy consumption for useThe bill overrules contract law and land titles by favouring renewable energy projects over real property agreementsAnd finally, it establishes the ‘toaster police’ who have vast search and seizure powers on household appliances.  And if you get in their way, you face a $25,000 fine
“I can’t believe as Minister of Consumer Services he would allow this,” stated MacLeod.  “This is the biggest threat to consumers in Ontario’s history. Enough is enough!”

For Immediate Release                                                                        

March 2nd, 2009

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