For Immediate Release
June 18, 2008
SKYROCKETING FERRY FARES HIGHLIGHT NEED TO SCRAP CAMPBELL’S FUEL TAX, SAYS JAMES

KELOWNA - Dramatic new increases in ferry fares provide yet another reason why Gordon Campbell should scrap his fuel tax before it kicks in July 1, says NDP leader Carole James.

“Under Gordon Campbell, ferry fares have doubled in the past five years. Fuel prices have made it worse, and now Campbell’s fuel tax is piling on,” said James.

“Gordon Campbell didn’t take the time to consider the impact of his fuel tax on British Columbians when he rammed it through the Legislature,” she said.

“It’s time for Campbell to recognize the profound harm his plan inflicts on communities, and scrap this unfair tax before it starts.”

BC Ferries has announced a new fuel surcharge this summer that will increase ferry fares by up to 20 per cent on some routes. This is on top of already-scheduled fare increases.

“Gordon Campbell broke his promise of stable ferry fares, and instead we’ve seen the sharpest fare increases in B.C. history,” said James. “Coast communities have been hammered, and the fuel tax makes it worse.

“What’s worse, this tax is doing nothing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We need real solutions to fight climate change, not an unfair gas tax.”

James has put forward a framework for real action on climate change, and has also launched a petition campaign to axe the gas tax. For details, visit http://www.axethegastax.ca