UPDATED: New Provincial Benefit Will Provide Financial Relief

The provincial government has announced $20 million toward a new benefit to help offset the rising cost of gas and groceries.

The Emergency Fuel and Food Benefit will provide financial relief to low-income individuals and families, including seniors who are confronted with challenges due to the rising cost of living.

“The current economic situation is having a severe impact on New Brunswickers, most particularly low-income individuals, families, and seniors,” said Premier Blaine Higgs in a release.

“It is essential for the provincial government to provide the appropriate relief for those in need,” added Higgs.

It consists of a one-time payment of $225 for low-income individuals, or $450 for families, including seniors.

More than 75,000 people are eligible, and the funding will also be distributed to existing Social Development clients who are receiving low-income or housing benefits.

As well, the government is contributing an extra $1 million to the food banks through Food Depot Alimentaire, to help them meet the increased demand.

It is the second $1 million contribution made to New Brunswick food banks since March.

In the legislature on Tuesday, Higgs said the funding will get out quickly to the most vulnerable people.

“When you talk about doing something, you do something that will really have an impact, not something that’s a headline Mr. Speaker, not for somebody that’s coming to the tanks or the pumps who may not need it. But Mr. Speaker, somebody at home seeing the impact when they go to the grocery store,” said Higgs.

Roger Melanson, interim leader of the Liberal party, disputed the premier’s claims.

“For five months, the cost of living is going up every single month. The price at the pump again today is $2.08. The premier with his inactions and not caring about people who are really hurting right now, every time they go and fill up their gas tank or try to fill up their gas tanks,” said Melanson.

“Their premier has been mumbling different ideas. Talked about a rebate, never happened, changed his mind. Now he talked last week about a targeted solution. Everybody’s waiting to see what he really means, Mr. Speaker, as other provinces are really taking this seriously.”

The premier responded by saying the plan is to have this program in effect for June, not six months from now.

“Not everyone needs it. Not everyone is in the same situation. Not everyone is going to a food bank. Not everyone is on a fixed income. There are people who really need this and who are feeling the effects of inflation,” said Higgs.

But Melanson feels that $20 million is not enough to help New Brunswickers.

“What is that? $50 per New Brunswicker? If you if you do the breakdown, Mr. Premier, you can’t just can’t throw a number like that. Reduce the provincial gas tax at the pump. Give people who make $25,000 a year, 500 bucks now!”

With files from Tara Clow.