Cost of Living Rises Once Again | Oct 27, 2021
“With inflation at the highest level in almost 20 years, Canadians are paying more and more for basic necessities, and families are struggling to make ends meet. Inflation is no accident – this is a direct consequence of the Liberal government’s reckless policies and failure to act on affordability.
“It’s clear that Canada is facing a cost of living crisis which is being impacted by growing threats to our supply chains. Since last year, food prices in Canada have risen overall by 3.9 per cent; with meat up by 9.5 per cent, margarine up by 9.9 per cent, and baby food seeing an increase of 5 per cent.
“These price increases hit seniors and low-income Canadian families the hardest. A recent poll by the Angus Reid Institute found that more than one-third of Canadians have struggled to afford enough food to feed their families during the pandemic. This is unacceptable.
“Our food prices and supply chains cannot continue to be an afterthought for the Liberal government. With inflation at an all-time high and a Liberal carbon tax that further restricts producers’ competitiveness through added transportation costs, Canada’s food security is at a tipping point.
“It’s time for the Liberal government to take Canada’s raising food prices seriously. Canada’s Conservatives once again urge the Trudeau Liberals to take the following immediate steps to lower food costs and product Canada’s agriculture supply chain:
*Prevent labour shortages by making it easier to bring seasonal workers without all the red tape;
*Let farmers compete for market share by exempting on-farm use of propane and natural gas from the Liberal carbon tax;
*Expand opportunities and financial supports for farmers while ensuring that supply-managed sectors get compensation for concessions made under recent free trade negotiations;
*Offer agri-producers protection from volatility by reforming Business Risk Management Programs; and
*Stop supplier exploitation by big grocery stores by working with the provinces to implement a Grocery Code of Conduct.
We have been calling for the Liberals to get inflation under control, deliver support to farmers and food processors, lower prices, and make life more affordable for families. It’s clear that making life more affordable and tackling the cost-of-living crisis is not a priority for Justin Trudeau and the Liberals.”