The Ontario government is reportedly handing out rebate cheques to help residents combat the rising cost of living.
As the cost of living continues to increase, people across the province are struggling to make ends meet. To address this, the provincial government is reportedly set to send out cheques to eligible Ontario residents, the Toronto Star reports.
The total amount of the cheques is still being determined, but it will reportedly be at least $200 for every eligible adult and child. Sources say that the announcement will come during the fall economic statement coming from Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy on Oct. 30, the Star reports.
The cheques would be tax-free and are expected to be released in January or February 2025.
This news comes ahead of a possible early election, which could see residents head to the polls as early as March 2025.
The decision was made factoring in concerns about rising costs for essentials like food, housing, and electricity.
The star reports that 16 million people across the province will be eligible for the rebate, at a cost of $3.2 billion.
ONTARIANS REACT
Online, Ontarians are sharing their thoughts on the reported rebate. Some people feel the timing is a little too convenient.
“Hmmm…. One could say …he’s bribing…!?!? the voter,” one person shared online.
“Sabotaging essential public services and then pretending to give people money so that they can go shopping is CON playbook,” wrote one Redditor.
While others feel this is the bare minimum the province could be doing to support people during this time of need.
“Most people are struggling and they’re sending out checks to make us smile for a bit? This reminds me of the scene in mad Max when they turn on the water for the people below and then shut it off. Thanks for the crumbs,” one person posted to Reddit. “Fund our education and healthcare.”
“Make it 25K and I’ll think about voting for you better yet put all that money back into our Healthcare system,” wrote another.
“I’ll always take my tax money back, but this will be inflationary in general. Also if it’s being added to the debt then it’s a scam.”
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