Report From Parliament Hill

Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora Riding

Dear Constituents,

Current reports suggest that energy prices may increase up to 100% this year which is why this week in Ottawa, my colleagues and I put forth a motion calling on the government to exempt home heating from taxes.
I asked the Minister for Natural Resources if he would commit to exempting home heating from taxes this winter in an effort to help reduce costs. He refused to answer. 
It is time the government wakes up and realizes home heating is not a luxury, it is a necessity for life.
I hope the government will support our common-sense, realistic motion to help lower energy bill costs this winter.
Food Inflation
This month food inflation was over 11%, over double the rate of overall inflation. This is unacceptable.  Food banks are seeing record numbers of people needing help, and Canadians are having to cut back on what and how much they’re eating.
No one should have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table.  Since early 2022 my colleagues and I were advocating for the government to look ahead and try to rein in spending and inflation but they refused to take action. 
This week, I gave a speech in the House of Commons on the impact food inflation has in northern Ontario, including the skyrocketing prices of food at grocery stores in First Nations communities.  My colleagues and I will continue to advocate for the government to take action to address the increasing rates of food prices, and hope the government will commit to working with all parties to help lower cost of living for Canadians.
Tourism Rebound
The tourism industry in our region plays a critical role in all our communities and economic activity.  I appreciated the opportunity this week to sit down with representatives from the Tourism Industry Association Canada to discuss ways to support the tourism industry locally, and nationally as it recovers from the economic damage done during COVID-19.
Working for You
If you’re planning to be in Ottawa, and are interested in attending Question Period or taking a tour of Parliament please let me know and my office can help reserve Question Period and tour tickets.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please call me at 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or email me at [email protected].
Sincerely, 
Eric Melillo
Member of Parliament