NDP reacts to heat pump program to save families money, while tackling the climate crisis

NDP Environment and Climate Change critic Laurel Collins made the following statement in reaction to British Columbia receiving funding for heat pumps:

“Today’s announcement is long-overdue. It provides relief for families in British Columbia with their home heating costs and helps them lower their emissions. This important step forward is happening thanks to the work of the BC NDP, and the NDP fighting for the program through the confidence and supply agreement.

Canada’s New Democrats want to see this program extended to all Canadians. But the Liberals have been delaying this important switch for years. All while continuing to hand billions of dollars over to big oil and gas and cancelling programs like the Greener Homes Fund that Canadians use to retrofit their homes with greener and cheaper heating options.

Canadians shouldn’t be expected to bear the cost of the climate crisis alone. Yet, Justin Trudeau and Minister Guilbeault keep letting rich CEOs off the hook while placing the burden on regular people. And while Trudeau and Guilbeault delay so that oil and gas CEOs can keep raking in profits, Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives don’t believe in climate change, creating good-paying green jobs, or helping you switch to more affordable home heating options. Neither approach is working in your favour.

New Democrats want to see a future where we take on the climate crisis while getting more money into your pockets. It’s why we’re pushing the government to stop giving handouts to oil and gas, make CEOs pay their fair share through with an excess profits tax, and ensure the heat pump program and Greener Homes Fund are accessible to all Canadians.”