SURVEY SAYS COSTS UP, SERVICES DOWN

For Immediate Release

May 10, 2016

 

SURVEY SAYS COSTS UP, SERVICES DOWN

QUEEN’S PARK – Today in the Legislature Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford, reported the results of his annual newsletter survey which found that people in Oxford are struggling with rising costs while services like health care declines.

“The people of Oxford told me that they are worried about making ends meet with rising hydro costs, high taxes and soon the mandatory pension plan,” said Hardeman. “At the same time they are struggling to get the services they need, particularly family doctors and surgeries.”

Hardeman’s annual newsletter includes a survey that constituents can return to share their concerns with the MPP. 94% of respondents said their family had been impacted by the increasing cost of hydro – 67% of respondents said the impact has been significant. One constituent enclosed a copy of his hydro bill which showed a cost of over $700 for a single month.

“While costs are going up – services aren’t improving. 87% said that health care hasn’t improved over the last ten years,” said Hardeman. “They told me about loved ones that are waiting for cataract surgeries, knee surgeries, hip replacements and occupational therapy.”

Some of the biggest concerns were: economy and jobs; government spending; seniors’ issues and taxes.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the survey and share their concerns,” said Hardeman. “I will continue to push for the things that matter to the people of Oxford – keeping the cost of living affordable, creating jobs, and health care that we can depend on.”

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For more information, contact:

Ernie Hardeman, MPP Oxford

(416) 325-1239