Highways & Infrastructure Shadow Minister Darcy Warrington met with reporters near the Shell gas station on 15th St. E. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Cost of living

‘What are you waiting for?’: Sask NDP calls on government to pause gas tax

Sep 23, 2026 | 4:28 PM

A day removed from the Alberta Premier’s decision to suspend that province’s gas tax and the federal government’s extension of its fuel excise tax, the Saskatchewan NDP’s Highways and Infrastructure Shadow Minister stood near a gas station in Prince Albert and called on Premier Scott Moe to follow suit.

Darcy Warrington told reporters Saskatchewan drivers have been hit hard by the high cost of fuel and it’s affecting daily life choices that include taking the kids to school or hockey practice and commuting to work. He also noted people from northern communities also drive to the city for groceries and medical appointments.

“I have a pretty simple question for Scott Moe … what are you waiting for? Scott Moe has made a career out of copying Danielle Smith’s every move, except when it comes to making life more affordable,” Warrington said.

According to a statement provided by the Sask. Party, more than $2.5 billion in affordability measures have been introduced to help lower everyday costs and strengthen financial stability for Saskatchewan families.

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While there are no plans to pause, reduce or eliminate the fuel tax, the government said the province reviews its programs and taxes annually as part of the budget development process.

One of the arguments in the past is the gas tax helps pay for roads and bridges.

When asked by reporters what the NDP might do differently, Warrington suggested if they were to see the price of gas remain below $1.60 for an extended period, then that might be a good time to review whether to reinstate the 15 cents a litre tax.

“But this is not manageable. People filling up their gas tanks paying 20 per cent more than they normally do; some people have to fill their tank every single day, so it’s not acceptable, and people are asking for relief,” he said.

On Monday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith stated drivers will save 13 cents a litre on gasoline and diesel starting Oct. 1 for a period of three months.

Smith’s government offered $100 rebate cheques to Albertans last April amid soaring global oil prices. However, the rebate program was problematic, with many eligible adults opting not to apply through an online portal criticized by some as being invasive and onerous.

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell

— with files from the Canadian Press

by Nigel Maxwell

‘What are you waiting for?’: Sask NDP calls on government to pause gas tax

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