Government of Yukon
Archives
FOR RELEASE #05-313
December 1, 2005
Government Helps Yukoners With The High Price Of Energy
WHITEHORSE - An energy rebate for Yukoners most in need will be issued early in the New Year, Premier and Minister of Finance Dennis Fentie announced today.
"I want all Yukoners to know that this government is concerned with the cost of energy and the affect it has on people with limited disposable income to cope with such a rapid escalation in energy prices," Fentie said.
Rebate cheques of $150 will be offered to those most in need. Families who are eligible for the quarterly GST credit released in January 2006 will qualify. The rebate cheques are expected to be issued when many Yukoners are feeling a financial 'crunch' after Christmas and during the coldest months of the year.
Social Assistance recipients eligible for the rebate will not have their assistance reduced by the rebate amount. The Health and Social Services Minister will also exempt the recently announced Federal Energy Rebate from Social Assistance 'claw-back'.
"We will not ask for proof that fuel is the primary source of heat," Fentie said. "We know the high price of fuel ultimately affects Yukoners whether they pay for it directly or not."
"A simple rebate claim form will be required, with the sole purpose to ensure there is an equitable process that captures all eligible recipients. The rebate claim forms will be as straightforward as possible to ensure a timely processing of the rebate cheque," Fentie added. "The rebate claim applications will be sent to qualifying families in late February or early March."
Further details about the energy rebate program will be available on the Department of Finance's web site at www.finance.gov.yk.ca by mid December.
- 30 -
Contact:
Peter Carr
Cabinet Communications Advisor
(867) 667-8688
peter.carr@gov.yk.ca