Montreal, March 22, 2022 - Option consommateurs deplores the fact that the government's 2022-2023 budget fails to include targeted, sustainable measures to provide real help to consumers hard hit by inflation.
"We're not against paying Quebecers a sum to help them cope with inflation. However, we would have liked this measure to be adapted to consumers' financial situation," says Christian Corbeil, General Manager ofOption consommateurs.
In fact, Option consommateurs proposed that the government make the refundable solidarity tax credit permanent, increase the amount of the housing allowance and extend access to this support measure to low-income single people aged 50 and under, in addition to significantly increasing the amount of social assistance benefits and family allowances.
Option consommateurs is also disappointed that the government has made no provision in its budget to support consumers in the face of rising Hydro-Québec rates.
"Once again, we believe that the government should freeze Hydro-Québec's rates until it gives the Régie de l'énergie back the power to set electricity rates annually," adds Corbeil.
In addition, Option consommateurs is delighted that the measure to cancel interest on student loans has been extended for a further year.
We would like to highlight the investment of $117 million under the government's Community Action Action Plan (PAGAC) for the years 2022-2023. This investment will reach $234 million recurring to the mission in 5 years. Although this represents only half of the current needs of independent community organizations, we would like to highlight this important gesture by the government.
About Option consommateurs
Option consommateurs is a non-profit association whose mission is to defend the rights and interests of consumers. It focuses on issues related to personal finance, business practices, financial services, privacy, energy, debt and access to justice.
-30-
For more information or an interview :
Marie-Ève Dumont, Communications Consultant
514-777-6133
