Prime Minister Mark Carney gets ready to deliver an announcement in Brampton, Ontario, on April 7, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS
Mark Carney says his government is aware of rising fuel costs and is exploring ways to support Canadians. Speaking at an event in Brampton, he acknowledged the growing concern as prices approach $2 per litre.
“What can we do to help cushion the blow for Canadians?” Carney asked. “That’s something we’re looking at.”
Many drivers across the country now face higher costs each time they fill their tanks or heat their homes.
Global Factors Behind Rising Prices
Carney explained that global events continue to drive fuel prices upward. He pointed to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States as a major factor affecting supply and costs worldwide.
He said Canadians often wonder why they must deal with these increases. According to him, the answer lies in how the global market works.
“Those countries that have lots of oil and gas see their prices go up alongside with those who don’t have that oil and gas. It’s the same shifts up in prices in the United States as well,” Carney said.
The prime minister stressed that Canada does not operate in isolation and must respond to international market changes.
Government Weighs Possible Support
While the government has not announced specific measures, Carney confirmed that officials are reviewing possible options. He did not provide details about what form the support could take or when it might begin.
The issue comes at a time when Canadians continue to face higher living costs. Fuel prices play a key role in everyday expenses, from transportation to heating.
The government is expected to provide more clarity in the upcoming spring economic update.
Opposition Calls for Tax Cuts
At the same time, Pierre Poilievre has urged the government to act quickly. He has called for the removal of federal fuel taxes for the rest of the year.
In a formal letter to Carney, Poilievre asked the government to suspend both the fuel excise tax and the GST on gasoline and diesel. He suggested that higher government revenues from rising fuel costs could cover the loss.
The proposal has added pressure on the government to respond as public concern grows.
Uncertainty Remains
Despite these discussions, Canadians still face uncertainty about future fuel prices. Global tensions and market shifts continue to influence costs, making it difficult to predict how long the current situation will last.
Carney’s comments signal that the government recognizes the impact on households. However, until concrete measures are announced, many Canadians will continue to manage rising expenses on their own.
