Mr. Speaker, never has it been more difficult for V8 truck owners in this country. After years of Liberal mismanagement, they have created hardships for farmers, families and forestry workers in northern Alberta. Now, the Liberal government plans to ban gas-powered vehicles and force Canadians to drive electric vehicles. It is just one more example of “Ottawa knows best”.
I will tell members what Albertans and rural Canadians know. The farmer hauling his livestock cannot wait for hours to recharge during a trip. The hunter who needs to bring home his moose cannot stick it in the back of a Prius. When it is -40°C out, oil and gas workers cannot rely on EVs to haul the heavy equipment needed to keep the heat on for the rest of the country. Even in Quebec, the number one selling vehicle is the gas-powered, F-series pickup.
In a strong and free Canada, Canadians must have the choice to drive a vehicle that meets their needs at a price that they can afford. It is time to axe the ban on gas-powered vehicles.