EDMONTON — The federal government says Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s request for a judicial review of Ottawa’s carbon tax is nothing more than political posturing.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault and Justice Minister Arif Virani say it’s disappointing, but not surprising, that Smith is embarking on a “political stunt” ahead of his review of the leadership of the United Conservative Party this weekend. end.

They say the temporary exemption for heating oil is intended to give time to switch to cheaper forms of home heating and that the Supreme Court has approved the legality of the levy.

The Liberal ministers add that in Alberta, a family of four will receive $1,800 this year thanks to the carbon rebate, the largest in the country.

Smith announced earlier this week that his United Conservative Party government was seeking a judicial review of Ottawa’s exemption from the carbon tax on heating oil.

Smith says the exemption is unfair to Albertans, who rely on natural gas to heat their homes.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published October 30, 2024.

Lisa Johnson, The Canadian Press