Another fee increase for Ontarians - more criticism leveled

NEWS RELEASE

PROVINCIAL NDP COMMUNICATIONS

*************************

NDP: Outrageous eco-fee increases gouge food producers
 
QUEEN’S PARK – NDP Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs Critic John Vanthof says recently increased eco-fees on commercial tires in Ontario are hurting food producers, and increasing cross-border competition for tire sales.
 
“[Premier Wynne] says she is making it her business to get to understand what goes on in rural Ontario and in the agriculture community,” said Vanthof [shown]. “Increasing eco fees on agriculture tires from $15 to $350 and more is not a good way to start that conversation.”
 
“These new fees are risking tire businesses all along the border,” said Vanthof. “And they show a continued lack of understanding and respect for the struggles of Ontario’s food producers and businesses along the border.”
 
Vanthof says the cost of recycling the tires should be paid by producers, and not passed directly onto consumers.
 
“We know there’s a problem. Premier, will you commit to fixing it?” asked Vanthof.

*************************