2000 Info OK For Fuel Program

Eligible Nova Scotians now can use their 2000 income tax information to apply for the Low-Income Fuel Assistance Program.

"We’re now able to accept income tax information from last year now that people have it in their hands," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We extended the deadline in January, and now we’re making it even easier for those in need to get assistance."

"There’s three weeks left and I’d like to encourage all eligible Nova Scotians to apply before the March 31 deadline," said Mr. MacIsaac.

More than 22,000 applications have already been received, compared to 14,000 last year. "This program is doing what we set out for it to do,” he said, “and that is to get assistance into the hands of the people who need it most, not to solve the problem of high oil prices."

Mr. MacIsaac attributes the increase in applications to the fact that more Nova Scotians are aware of the program. "The numbers tell the story and it’s contrary to claims that the rebate is too hard to get. We have mechanisms in place to help anyone get the information that’s needed and they’re working."

The program provides $50 to families with a net income of $16,500 or less, single people at $9,500 or less, seniors who currently receive the guaranteed income supplement or spouse’s allowance, and social-assistance recipients. Proof of a home heating oil or propane purchase is required. Brochures and applications are available in every Access Nova Scotia centre and in Community Services offices around the province. The application deadline is March 31. For more information call 902-424-5200 or toll-free 1-800-670-4357.

While including 2000 income information is good news, the really welcoming news for all Nova Scotians is that home-heating fuel prices are on the decline, Mr. MacIsaac said. Furnace oil currently averages 56 cents a litre including taxes, compared to about 68 cents a litre in December 2000.