Poilievre proposes temporary federal gas tax holiday, cites cost relief for drivers

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling on the federal government to suspend gas taxes for the remainder of the year, saying the measure would provide immediate cost relief as fuel prices rise.

In a press release issued Thursday, Poilievre said eliminating federal fuel taxes could save a family of four about $1,200 over the rest of 2026. He argued the policy would ease financial pressure on households facing higher transportation and food costs.

“Canadians deserve affordable fuel and food,” Poilievre said in the release, adding that the proposal would allow seniors, families and workers to manage daily travel expenses more easily.

According to the Conservative Party statement, the proposed tax holiday could reduce prices at the pump by roughly 25 cents per litre. Poilievre also pointed to recent fuel tax reductions in countries including Ireland, Spain and Australia following global price increases linked to tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

The proposal would require federal government action to suspend or adjust existing fuel tax policy. It is not clear whether the Liberal government plans to consider such a measure.