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Red Deerians don’t agree with the new carbon tax

The Climate Leadership Implementation Act, kicks in Jan. 1 and Red Deerian have mixed opinions

Bill 20, the Climate Leadership Implementation Act, is set to kick in Jan. 1 and citizens of Red Deer have mixed opinions on the new Alberta carbon tax.

Red Deer resident Mike Cook is someone who doesn’t agree with it.

“I think it’s unnecessary, and I think it’s the wrong time. I truly believe that Canada is a carbon sink and we’re not over our limit.

“People are losing their jobs, and I believe (Justin) Trudeau and (Rachel) Notley just don’t have the population in their best interest,” said Cook.

Cook isn’t alone, others are infuriated with it and are quick to point the finger at the premier or the prime minister.

“I think it’s a joke. Why should we pay money for using our resources?

“I blame Rachel Notley and the NDP because they’re the ones creating it,” said Red Deer resident Dylan Mackey.

Red Deer native Sherri Jabs said she is worried with what this means for low-income families and the elderly.

“I think with the way the economy is right now I just think it’s ridiculous to make people pay more. I think about people on budgets and seniors. Where are they going to get the money to pay for everything?” said Jabs.

Notley has said if the carbon tax is done right it will “act as a stimulus” and help Mother Earth and diversify the economy.

Red Deerian Ron Unrau agrees with Notley and is fully on board with the idea.

“I’m generally in favour of being green so I’m actually in favour of it. From what I understand, Notley is trying try to reduce emissions so we don’t have to pay too much carbon tax. Something punitive like that is something motivational,” said Unrau.

Although many in Red Deer don’t agree with Bill 20, Premier Rachel Notley said the bill makes Alberta a “world leader” on climate change after years of neglect.

The new framework will see the province first cut the rate of growth in greenhouse gas emissions, with real reductions kicking in by 2030.

jonathan.guignard@www.reddeeradvocate.com