January 18, 2010

MANITOBA HYDRO MUST EXPLAIN RATE HIKE

If the Crown Corp. wants six per cent, it better explain why first: McFadyen  

Progressive Conservative Leader Hugh McFadyen has serious concerns about the future of electricity bills in Manitoba – and says before a six per cent hike is approved, Manitoba Hydro must first answer to Manitobans.

Manitoba Hydro will be appearing before the Public Utilities Board (PUB) tomorrow for an interim rate increase. In December, Hydro applied to the PUB for a six per cent rate increase starting in April of 2010. 

 “Hydro rates have gone up 16 per cent in recent years – and now the NDP wants Manitobans to hand over more of their hard-earned money,” McFadyen said. “Manitobans deserve answers before they are asked to pay even more.”

 “What we need today more than ever before is accountability and answers. Greg Selinger and Manitoba Hydro should be prepared to provide these answers before Hydro moves forward with any kind of increase,” McFadyen said.