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The Gas Tax Holiday Ends in 24 Days — Here's the Real Math on What You'll Save

  Published August 14, 2026 Ottawa's fuel excise tax suspension shuts off September 7. Here's what it's actually been worth at the pump, what changes the next morning, and who should plan a fill-up before Labour Day. The Countdown The federal fuel excise tax returns to full rate on September 8, 2026 — that's 24 days from today. Prices reset to their pre-April 20 rate the moment the clock hits midnight. If you've noticed gas feeling a little less painful since spring, that wasn't your imagination. On April 20, 2026, Ottawa suspended the federal fuel excise tax — 10 cents a litre off gasoline, 4 cents off diesel — as Middle East oil-supply disruptions pushed pump prices toward $2 a litre in some cities. The suspension, passed as part of Bill C-30, has been running for nearly four months. It ends September 7, inclusive. On September 8, the tax comes right back. What the holiday actually saved you The headline number — 10 cents a litre on gas — undersells it sligh...
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Canada’s Refugee Health-Care Bill Reaches $1 Billion Annually

 

                Canadians now spending $1 billion per year to cover health-care costs of refugee claimants


Canada is now spending an unprecedented $1 billion per year to provide health‑care coverage for refugee claimants, according to a recent analysis by the Parliamentary Budget Officer. The rising cost is tied to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), which offers temporary medical coverage to asylum seekers, refugees, and others not yet eligible for provincial health plans. 

The surge in expenses reflects a combination of factors: a record number of asylum claims, longer eligibility periods due to processing backlogs, and higher per‑beneficiary costs. Some claimants continue receiving coverage even after their applications have been rejected, adding to the financial strain. 

Spending under the IFHP has grown dramatically in recent years—from $211 million in 2020–21 to nearly $900 million in 2024–25—and is projected to keep climbing. Current estimates suggest the program could exceed $1.5 billion annually within the next five years if trends continue. 

The escalating costs have sparked debate over the sustainability of the program and the broader impact of Canada’s growing asylum system. While advocates argue the coverage is essential for humanitarian and public‑health reasons, critics warn that the financial burden on taxpayers is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.

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