HARDEMAN LAUNCHES HYDRO PETITION

QUEEN’S PARK – Today Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman launched a petition to help Oxford residents deliver the message that hydro costs are too high and the increases need to stop.

“I have heard from family after family that is struggling with their hydro bills and yet this government still doesn’t seem to understand the impact,” said Hardeman. “If the government thinks that an 8% rebate solved the problem they haven’t been listening to the people of Ontario.”

The petition points out that under the current government electricity rates have risen by over 300% and are forcing people to cut down on essential expenses such as food and medicine in order to pay their electricity bills.

“I’ve heard from a number of people that their hydro bill is now higher than their mortgage,” said Hardeman. “People who are contacting me are facing real hardship and I want to ensure we are doing everything we can to make the government understand that.”

People can access the petition at http://erniehardemanmpp.com/2016/10/20/petition-to-reduce-energy-rates/ or obtain a copy by calling 519-537-5222 or visiting Hardeman’s office at 12 Perry street, Woodstock.

Hardeman expressed disappointment that last week the government restricted opportunities for discussion on hydro rates by shutting down debate on Bill 13, An Act in respect of the cost of electricity, and limiting the time for public hearings.

“I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to share their increasing hydro costs and stories about the impact of those costs on their families,” said Hardeman. “I hope that this petition will be another tool for people to share their frustration and for me to raise their concerns in the Legislature.”

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For more information, contact:

Ernie Hardeman, MPP Oxford

(416) 325-1239