Video by Jason Wood.
REGINA — Surging fuel prices are hitting Regina drivers’ wallets, even as the federal government moves to offer temporary relief at the pump.
Over the past month, Regina drivers have felt the increased prices of fuel.
The ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict has caused fuel prices to jump, sitting at nearly $1.70 a litre as of Tuesday, according to GasBuddy.
In an effort to lower fuel costs, the federal government announced Tuesday it will temporarily suspend the excise tax on gasoline and diesel, beginning Monday and lasting through Labour Day.
Federal officials say the measure is expected to save Canadians about 10 cents per litre on gasoline and four cents per litre on diesel.
While filling up his car, Regina resident Ahmad Ayub said the move will help drivers.
“I think it's going to be a big relief from the driving perspective.”
Ayub works as a food delivery driver. With fuel prices rising, he said he is choosing stations with lower prices to save money.
“In [a] normal routine, I can go anywhere. In co-op or any petrol station. But [at] the moment, I'm coming only to this specific petrol station because it's like [a] 20 cents (per litre) difference basically.”
Not every driver feels short-term price relief will solve the issue.
“I don't think it's enough. I spend like a thousand a month on gas,” said Clayton Staite, who owns Staite of Mind Roofing and Exteriors.
Staite said rising fuel and supply costs could impact his business, as higher prices may be passed on to customers.
“I’ll probably lose a customer or two here, lose a roof or two here.”
Even with the temporary relief, Staite said he expects prices to rise again.
“We get into September, and they’re going to jack it up again [to] what. $1.90 a litre?”
Rather than cutting fuel prices, Staite said the federal government should focus on food costs.
“[The] government should put a tax cut on groceries instead, man. Food has a bigger impact.”
Meanwhile, Ayub said he would like to see further action to reduce fuel prices.
The federal Conservatives have called for the removal of carbon and clean fuel regulations to further lower costs.
The temporary tax cut is expected to cost Canada $2.4 billion.
