Is Unfettered Price Gouging By The Oil Companies Harper's Reward For Their Loyalty And Support?

.... just asking!

"Gas Prices Driving Canadians Crazy
May 11, 2011

A new poll from Ottawa-based Abacus Data shows that rising gas prices are affecting most Canadian family budgets and many Canadians are planning to make changes to their spending behaviour. Two thirds of respondents said they are angry and blame oil and gas companies for the increases. Almost eight in ten (79%) want governments to step in and do something.

Over seven in ten Canadians surveyed (72%) said that rising gas prices have forced them to change their spending plans with 39% saying that price increases have “really hurt their budget”. Only 21% of respondents said that they have not been affected by the gas prices increases.

Of those who cite budget pains from the rise in gas prices:

46% will have to reduce general spending;
41% plan to cut back on entertainment spending;
31% will find alternatives to driving: and,
26% will change their summer or vacation plans.

“The impact of rising gas prices goes beyond the price of fuel, food, and transportation,” said David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data. “Canadians are changing their plans and spending priorities away from entertainment and vacations to help stem the rising cost of gas.”

When asked why they felt gas prices are rising, almost all respondents said it was because of “greedy” oil and gas companies, while 47% cited the rising demand for oil. Another 46% noted the conflict in Libya as a cause while only 25% believed rising gas prices was related to improving economic conditions."
Abacusdata.ca