REGINA, SK: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is calling on Premier Brian Pallister to oppose Ottawa’s imposition of a carbon tax in the wake of a new poll showing a majority of Manitobans don’t support the tax. The CTF is also calling on Premier Pallister to reaffirm his commitment to hold a referendum before imposing any major tax, including a carbon tax.

“Manitobans don’t want a carbon tax that costs people money without actually helping the environment,” said Todd MacKay, Prairie Director for the CTF. “Manitobans are sending Premier Pallister a clear message: don’t impose a carbon tax without a referendum.”

Mainstreet Research found that 50% of Manitobans oppose a carbon tax, 39% support it and 11% are unsure.

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall is actively opposing Ottawa’s plan to force provinces to implement a carbon tax. Premier Pallister has thus far refused to sign on to the federal carbon tax plan.

When asked whether a referendum should be held prior to the implementation of a carbon tax, 60%of Manitobans agreed that a carbon tax cannot be imposed without putting it to a vote.

The Progressive Conservative platform clearly promises to restore “Manitobans’ right to vote on any proposed major tax increases.”

“Former Premier Greg Selinger paid a huge political price for raising the PST without holding a referendum,” said MacKay. “This poll makes it crystal clear imposing a carbon tax without a referendum would be another betrayal. Premier Pallister needs to be straight with Manitobans and confirm that he won’t impose a carbon tax without a referendum.”

Details on the results of the poll can be found here: https://www.scribd.com/document/344398454/Mainstreet-Manitoba-March-2017#fullscreen&from_embed.