For immediate release:
August 1, 2006

Failed energy policy and heat wave make dangerous combination: Barrett

Simcoe—MPP Toby Barrett lashed out at the provincial government today for its mishandling of the vital electricity portfolio. 

“Today we broke a record for electricity use in Ontario,” said Barrett.  “With the increases in population, combined with record temperatures, few rational people should be surprised by our electricity demand.”

“This isn’t hard to understand – if demand is increasing, supply needs to increase as well,” Barrett added.  “Rather than making promises about closing our coal plants, the McGuinty government should be making investments in clean-air technology.  This would stabilize supply and cut smog.”

Barrett went on to add that conservation is best achieved by using electricity more efficiently, not simply going without.  Residents should not have to choose between shutting off their air conditioners and suffering through a major blackout.

“On hot days, doctors are telling people to stay in air-conditioned buildings.  But McGuinty is telling them to turn up the heat,” Barrett later said.  “After years of broken coal promises, Ontarians have had enough hot air.”

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For more information, please contact
MPP Toby Barrett at: (519) 428-0446 or
1-800-903-8629