Third week in a row...

Consumers to catch a break

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, May 24, 2011 - For the third week in a row, consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will be getting a break at the pumps again this week, if the numbers are right. That's from George Murphy, group researcher and member of the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"Volatility is not the word to describe what's been happening in the markets these last couple of weeks, and it shows in the numbers again," said Murphy. "Fourteen years at this, and I just can't describe what's going on in the markets. The evidence points towards a sell-off, but then there's a complete turn-around and they rebound again, but then they go nowhere. It's a very odd situation.

What's in the numbers

"Heating and stove oils show a slight increase of 7/100ths of a cent and diesel shows down by 3/10ths, close to what they showed last week. There's not much move in distillates which is a little mystifying in light of the non-demand season for heating oils. There should be some sign of a retreat. Its price may be supported as a result of diesel fuel being the world's most used fuel for transportation purposes, and heating/stove oils are also part of the same distillate group. My margin for error is three tenths of a cent, so there may be no change in price at all with those fuels.

"Gasoline is showing that consumers will see a more significant drop in prices with that fuel showing down by 3.4 cents a litre. While gasoline did not show a significant increase in inventory, it was the fact that inventories were up that ended up being reflected in prices again this week. It showed a case of 'enough is enough' by consumers out there, and they also let it be known with demand for gasoline being tepid at best. Of course, these numbers may also be subject to the volatility that was reflected in the markets the past couple of weeks!

At play in the markets

"I think there's still a lot of volatility in the markets out there. Things have not come even yet as there are simply too many factors at play. High prices remain a factor with consumers and that has also hindered economic recovery with disposable income being swallowed up in the United States. We're also seeing the impact of the ongoing debt crisis in Europe as some of the European Union countries namely Spain, Portugal, Greece, Ireland, and now Italy, deal with their debt-load. Austerity programming is not going over well with the citizenry there. The problems with European debt-load is causing a drain on the Euro and that has resulted in a withdrawal in commodities like oil as speculators pour their dollars into the US dollar.

Where prices may be going

"While the US dollar is showing signs of increasing in value, the Canadian dollar has experienced a slight retreat with it's close connection to oil prices. We may be coming close to the end of price drops for now, that is, unless we see some continuation of the factors like the European debt crisis play through, or consumers remain vigilant about consumption and the high price of fuel. But by the look of things, the price drop honeymoon may be over for now."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Numbers down again

Hope everyone had a good weekend, in spite of the weather around here. I guess some of us who had to work this weekend helped the oil companies along by turning up the thermostats a little bit!

Here's what I have, with six days of data in:

• Heating and stove oils are down by a scant 1/100ths of a cent.
• Diesel is down by 4/10ths of a cent, and...
• Gasoline is still showing down by 3.6 cents a litre.

I'll be back tomorrow night with the final numbers for this Thursday's price change.

Regards,

George

Here's a little week-end tidbit for you. These guys are trying to take credit for the work of others, namely you. No surprise with that I guess. Some say it's politics.

I think they're getting tired myself...

Tired government trying to take credit for others ideas

Media release

Conception Bay South, May 20, 2011- Consumers shouldn't be surprised to find the province's finance minister try and take credit for the ideas of another party, that's a regular occurrance. What they should be offended at is the fact that government forgets the history of the removal of tax on heat idea going back to 1997 and a resulting petition drive against the government in 2001.

"If they had any gumption, they would have recognised that this idea of the removal of tax on heat was not their idea, not given them via the finance minister on Humber Road, or by a senior who asked the finance minister to remove the tax just weeks before the budget, but given to them by 55,000 of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador on March 28, 2001 via a petition in the House of Assembly back then to remove the tax on heat in a petition drive led by our consumer group."

He's forgetting his history, and he obviously wasn't a big listener of the Open Line radio shows".

"The finance minister should give credit where credit is due, and stop being so disingenuous and just get on with it", said Murphy.

It has also been stated in the House of assembly many time since 2003 from the province's New Democratic Party that the tax on heat should go.

It was also stated by the province's New Democrats that they should remove the tax and also retain the heating rebate. Just a reminder to everyone that, while it may be slow in the Confederation Building today, putting out an update on applicable tax rule changes does not give the government the right to say that removing the tax on heat and retention of the heat rebate was their idea.

It's a sign that this government is fast running out of original ideas and that it's getting tired of governance. Now is the time for vigilance, everyone!

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

(709)744-2689

(709)685-6186 cellular

Here's the link to the government release: http://www.releases.gov.nl.ca/releases/2011/fin/0520n01.htm

Look out!
NHC announces its hurricane outlook

It's not even into June month yet, but already we're hearing from the US National Hurricane Center (NHC).

You know what that means...

The NHC is making dire predictions on hurricanes this year, calling for upwards of six major hurricanes of a category three or greater nature to form in the Atlantic. Their predictions say that winds from these hurricanes have the potential to blow in with winds up to 111 miles per hour or better.

But keep in mind the storms also do something else.

Hurricane syndrome
They're a harbinger of things to come on the oil front. No doubt that as soon as the first storm gets named and it's on it's way to the eastern seaboard, investors and the speculators will again step in and attempt to speculate on the disaster scenario, thus driving up prices again. I like to call the whole oil play they pull as Hurricane Syndrome.

Just another reason for "made in Canada" pricing...

How much attention will the markets give to the hurricane news remains to be seen.

I will give you my prediction; that someone is going to try to make a dollar from it!

See the release here: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2011/20110519_atlantichurricaneoutlook.html

Numbers so far
In the meantime, it's only early into the next regulatory session, so, I'll echo a word of caution here. The numbers are again pointing downwards for next Thursday.

Here's what I have so far:

• Heating and stove oils are down by 23/100ths
• Diesel is down by a half cent, and...
• Gasoline is down by 3.8 cents a litre.

Toronto and area will see prices down by another penny tonight as spot prices dipped again today to hit 72.8 cents a litre.

That's it for now!

Look for the next note on the numbers when you get back from the May two-four weekend.

Be safe!

George

Economy plays a role

Consumers to catch a break

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, May 17, 2011- Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will see a historic first this Thursday when the Public Utilities Board adjusts prices. That's from George Murphy, group researcher and member for the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"The downwards pressure continues to rage on oil prices as economic factors start to play in the markets.A simple case of consumers butting heads with price of commodities is mainly responsible as we see that tell-tale drop in demand and a gain in gasoline inventories last week", Murphy said.

"The oil speculators are having their troubles turning things around again as the bad economic news in the United States and news of debt troubles in the European Union both continue to play havoc with the markets.

"The numbers are holding for heating, stove oils and diesel with those fuels showing negligent change. Heating and stove oils show a drop of 3/100ths of a cent, while diesel shows an increase of two tenths of a cent. Those numbers are within my margin for error of three tenths of a cent a litre so, don't look for any change there."

"Gasoline is showing a drop now of 3.3 cents a ltre now, all ahead of the traditional start of the US summer driving season, as the markets traditionally ran up prices in the weeks ahead of the US Memorial day holiday weekend. The season may be a bit of a dud for investors, if the news like the last week gets worse. Today, it was news on house re-sale activity that didn't do investors any favours, and more news dealing with Greek debt from Europe that has investors troubled with the value of the Euro again.

"That helped investors turn their eyes to the US dollar as a hedge against inflation, rather than leave it in things like commodities and the Euro, and the sell-off began last week as a result. It may spell continued problems for oil prices, if European Union money troubles start to come into play again later this week.

"The markets also saw consumers bumping heads with prices as demand fell off. Gasoline inventories showed an unexpected gain along with rising crude oil inventories, a warning sign amidst refinery production at a low 81.7 per cent rate. It was a simple case of consumers getting tired of the high price and choosing to do something else besides drive, and their collective actions spelled trouble for oil and it's related, refined commodities. It was a hard lesson for Big Oil and investors to learn; that if people don't have the money, they won't drive. It was the law of diminishing returns coming full circle. It's as simple as that."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

***Footnote to this release.
Spot prices have caved downwards by 12 cents a litre since May 10th, with consumer prices here still expecting another three and some-odd cents to come besides what I have in the release. Look for further breaks as a result next week. At least, that's the indication so far...

"Say it ain't so, Joe!"
Not another price drop!

You saw it here first from my sarcastic self, and yes, you read it right...

It's been a wild roller-coaster ride on the markets for the past two weeks now, and there's no sign of abatement. The blog had over 2300 hits from people who, like yourself, wanted answers concerning high prices.

We're all still looking and we're not expecting Minister Tony Clement to come up with any either...

"Keep it simple, Tony."

We need a national inventory reporting system and an investigation into present trading laws on the markets. It's just getting too easy to spend money that you don't have, to invest in the markets and turn into a profit before the bills are paid.

It's as simple as that...

In the meantime, while numbers in the immediate Toronto area will be dropping again tonight, the numbers in Newfoundland and Labrador will also take a drop back this Thursday morning, all in time for the long weekend.

Still one more day of data to get my hands on, so the numbers will change slightly from what I have here, but I don't think that there's going to be anything critical in the way of further changes.

Here's what I have so far this session;

• Heating and stove oils show 14/100ths of a cent upwards.
• Diesel shows an added 3/10ths of a cent upwards, and...
• Gasoline shows a drop of 2.7 cents a litre.

I'll be back tomorrow night with a final run-down on the numbers for this Thursday.

Regards,

George

Could be short-lived

Volatile week results in a break for consumers

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, May 10, 2011- Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will see something that they haven't seen in a long time when they wake to lower prices this coming Thursday morning. That news is from George Murphy, group researcher and member of the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"Enjoy the drop in prices for now, because it may not last long," said Murphy. "Prices are already starting a meteoric climb since last week's drop in oil prices and oil's refined commodities are leading the charge. Consumers in the rest of Canada will be tagged tonight with further increases in prices and numbers are showing a trend toward increases to come to consumers here for next week. I have never seen a week of volatility like this since the Katrina and Rita hurricane events of 2005. There's a lot of instability out there."

Prices to drop

"I have heating and stove oils to drop by 6.86 cents per litre, which is a welcome break to users of that fuel. I'm hoping that pressure will ease off the important heating oils, but there is already a small upwards movement in prices above my average for the last week, which is not good news for next week.

"Diesel fuel shows a downwards move this week by 6.9 cents a litre but is also trending upwards for next week's price setting, showing a two cent a litre increase so far
.

"Gasoline now shows a drop of 2.8 cents a litre, now a full four cents off what the numbers showed after just one day of data last week. It's indicative of what has occurred in the markets for the past week. Numbers for gasoline are already showing that, if the trend holds, consumers could see an increase coming of up to six cents a litre if the trend holds for the next seven days. The markets could in fact turn the opposite way again before then, so I'm insecure about saying what is the definite here for next week, but there is a trend developing."

Putting the screws deeper

Big Oil is having a field day and speculators are in for the ride now. Oil has dropped by sixteen bucks US the past week trading down from $113.93 US on April 29th to drop back to $97.16 US on May 6th, only to recover to $103.88 for today, May 10th. In that time, refined commodities have climbed back up to April 29th levels again with oil off the 29th mark still by ten dollars US a barrel. I can't find a reasonable explanation as to why that is, but someone out there in the realms of the speculator is now making a heck of a lot of money. Best thing is, is that they don't have to explain it to anyone. They're no longer accountable. I'm willing to bet that refined commodity prices will not show a retreat while oil still advances to it's old mark set last week, then you'll know."

"Other region of the continent will be in for sticker shock, particularly our US neighbours. They'll take a hit upwards tonight by thirteen cents a gallon and diesel will increase by another nickel US. Other areas of Canada will also take a hit tonight with Toronto prices climbing another three cents a litre and other regulated markets possibly taking a more substantial hit later this week. This volatility in the markets is playing itself North America wide. I believe that the economy is soon going to pay the price if there is no retreat in fuel pricing. I believe that we've arrived at a breaking point."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

Good news and bad news...

Put it this way.

Anytime prices come down, it's a good thing, so I guess it's all good so far this week, but it was a much different story than last Thursday when gas numbers showed close on seven cents a litre down.

After the rally in oil prices since Friday, I'm surprised that numbers are still down. I haven't seen volatility in the numbers like this in a long time, but it does show how unstable the markets are. Here's what I have so far this session with Monday trading numbers in the mix:

• Heating and stove oils show down by 7.13 cents a litre.
• Diesel is also down by 7.3 cents a litre, and...
• Gasoline is down by 3.8 cents a litre.

I'll be back tomorrow night with the final breakdown on what to expect. All numbers will still be down, however...

Regards,

George

Price drops on the way

Hi to all...

Just watching the markets for the week so far and I am also getting a lot of email of inquiry on where prices may be going this week so far, so I figured I would let you know too.

Go light on whatever it is you're buying, let's put it that way...

Here's what I have so far, five days out of seven, reporting. Monday and Tuesday to come before I have a final number on what to expect this Thursday however...

• Heating and stove oils are down by 7.4 cents a litre.
• Diesel is down by 7.6 cents a litre, and...
• Gasoline shows down by 4.6 cents a litre.
• 
  

I'll be in touch later this week with final numbers for everyone, but after this week's market activity, this is where we stand so far.

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Go light for the next few days!

As you are all probably aware now, there is a huge sell-off in the markets today on some bad economic news and a rising US dollar against other currencies. It seems that yesterday's inventory data also was enough to give investors a good scare, so it's to the bottom of the tank for oil prices and their related, refined commodities.

As of 4:20 PM Newfoundland time today, oil prices have plummeted $9.50 US, I think the largest single day sell-off of oil in recent memory, if not just a record over all!

Gasoline is also showing down by 24 cents a US gallon, or close on 6.5 a litre plus taxes here. Look for a major drop in prices next week, if this news today keeps up for the rest of the week. You may want to go VERY LIGHT on any fuel purchases before then.

Regards for now!

George Murphy

Now that the election is out of the way...

Hi to all...

First off, thanks for getting out and voting at this weeks federal election. The New Democrats now have official opposition status now, which entitles them to lead the tone of questions and debate in the House of Commons. It also means that our issue of the tax on heat will be just one matter on the front burner of the party's agenda to Canadians, so hopefully, we'll see some action on this one soon as the New Democrats hold the Conservatives feet to the fire on the issue.

Short, sweet and simple again this week.

Next week should see a full edition of my synopsis for the week leading up to any price changes as we're all getting back to normal here after the federal election.

Interesting note from the election, however...

The promise of economic troubles from an NDP government as related to us by the Harper crowd, really didn't transform itself into a dramatic change in the money markets. In fact, the Canadian dollar actually gained strength against its US counterpart during this time. If an NDP government and their economic policies were such a threat to Canada's economy, you'd figure that the uncertainty would have made the dollar drop against the US greenback, wouldn't you?

It didn't happen...

Here's what I have for this weeks price changes:

• Stove and heating oils show an added 86/100ths of a cent upwards.
• Diesel numbers show an added 4/10ths of a cent upwards, but based on four days of data.
• Gasoline shows an added 1.1 cents a litre upwards.

That's it for this week!

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Just a note...

Here's a note from the Public Utilities Board website concerning the winter fuel blends. It should be enough to bring my numbers back in line with what I do measure. In other words, accuracy is back!

"With this adjustment, the pricing methodology for the calculation of the maximum price of
furnace oil heating fuel and diesel motor fuel on the island will be adjusted to reflect changes in
the specifications of the products supplied in the market. The specific changes are:
the maximum price of furnace oil heating fuel will be calculated based on 100% No. 2
oil, replacing the blend of 75% jet fuel and 25% No. 2 oil; and,
the maximum price of diesel motor fuel supplied on the island will be calculated based on

100% ULSD (ultra low sulphur diesel), replacing the blend of 75% ( kerosene and 25% ultra low sulphur)."

George

Hi to all...

Been busy this last week on the hustings, and so, I'll keep it short!

Here's what I have for this weeks price change to happen Thursday morning.

• Heating and stove oils show down by 1.05 cents per litre.
• Diesel shows down by 8/10ths of a cent, and...
• Gasoline shows up by 6/10ths of a cent.

That's it for me for this week!

I will finish off with one last word...

If you deem it too political, then please tune out.

For the past fourteen years, I have worked closely on behalf of the consumer in pursuit of the complete removal of the HST from all forms of heat.

On Monday coming, you will be given the chance to vote for a political party here in Canada that will act to remove this evil and unnecessary tax from an important commodity that we use everyday, and that also is deemed as a necessity of life and a growing health concern for some. While we have met with success provincially in removing the tax, the federal wing of the New Democratic Party under Jack Layton has as part of it's platform, the removal of the remaining five per cent HST on heat.

We are THIS CLOSE to having the tax removed once and for all.

I am asking my readers nationally and here in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador to keep the NDP in mind when they consider where to park their vote come election day. The removal of the remaining HST on all heat will come as soon as 100 days after the election of a strong Layton mandate.

It's been so long, and we are so close...

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Victory last week on the tax off heat
What's for this week, I wonder?

Sorry I haven't been around for a bit.

Out doing the door to door thing, and loving it, of course!

I hope that everyone out there is going to get out and vote. Remember that you alone can sometimes effect change, and it's a change we'll all be looking at if the polls are any indication.

Anyway, here's what I have for this week, with six days reporting. My gasoline number may be off slightly because of a lost day of data at the start of the session, so that number is reflective of five days of data:

• Stove and heating oils show a drop of 1.01 cents per litre (remember the kerosene!)
• Diesel shows a drop of 9/10ths of a cent, and ...
• Gasoline shows an added half cent at this point.

That's it for tonight!...

I'll be back tomorrow night, probably later than usual because of the door knocking thing. I hope I can be forgiven for promoting the "5% off heat" agenda! After all, it was fourteen years between successes in getting provincial taxes off heat, I figured that I'd get the early start on the federal tax off heat!...

Any questions, be sure to drop me a note!

Regards,

George

Hi to all...

Here's what I have for this week's price changes, along with some "news" from the markets for this week.

George

Provincial taxes off heat

One small victory will lead to another

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, April 19, 2011- Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will experience a slight change in some prices this week when the Public Utilities Board adjusts prices this Thursday. That's according to George Murphy, group researcher for the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

Heating fuels show "down"

"Markets are jittery and it shows in the numbers. I'm tracking price volatility that doesn't show growth or retreat in oil's future," Murphy said. "Oil showed a retreat two weeks ago, but has remained steady since then with only slight movement in refined commodities. The volatility is telling me that economic news is keeping oil steady as the markets are unsure of where the economy is going. Stove oils show 92/100ths down and that may be pointing the way for heating oils."

Numbers show slight change for transportation fuels

"The numbers are also close to that one cent change-over with the transportation fuels as well with diesel showing a 1.1 cent a litre drop and gasoline up by 1.3 cents. Diesel fuel is probably backing down slightly as a result of the performance of other distillates like heating and stove oils and may, in fact, be somewhat more than this number as a result of kerosene prices being dragged down as well. Gasoline is most likely up as a result of entering the time of year for the run-up in prices as we get nearer to the traditional start of the US summer driving season and a draw-down in gasoline inventories last reporting session."

Province drops their take on HST

"Good news in this budget for consumers of heat. Our work is now half done.The province dropped the collection of the province's portion of the HST today after our group's push to have the tax removed nearly fourteen years ago (1997) and one petition ago (March, 2001). To say that we're happy about this budget move is an understatement and to have the NDP and the party's leader, Ms. Lorraine Michael take up the charge on the issue several years ago (2003) helped push the issue to the hearts and minds of Newfoundland and Labrador consumers, and kept the issue in the limelight. But she also managed to keep the rebate in place, making the province follow the province of Saskatchewan in having both the tax removed from heat, and also ensuring the continuation of a rebate program for those who need it most."

"She deserves the gratitude of the province for that."

Federal portion needs to be addressed

"It's soon time to turn the focus of the HST on heat issue to the federal government. We know that the federal wing of the NDP has the removal of the tax on heat as part of their platform, but it is time to get rid of the HST on it for good. The fact that we now have three provinces without a tax on heat where previously all had it, should be mandate enough to have the tax removed from this necessity of life for all Canadians. If, after this election is over, the federal portion of this tax is not addressed, then I promise all consumers in this country that there will be a petition drive started to get a "Cross Canada consensus" to have the tax removed, once and for all."

"Spread the word. I'll be looking for help."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

The claim of victory!

We're halfway there!

As Danny Williams, and now Lorraine Michael said, "We got it!"

Sounds familiar, right?

Today, after being in the budget lock-down, and finding out that the tax had been removed, at least on a provincial level, I had to breathe a sigh of relief that the mission was halfway there.

Why?

Because in today's budget "We got it!" too...

As of October, the provincial portion of the HST will no longer be collected from your heat bill. It was a long, hard haul to this payday, but I am proud to say that the petition drive provincially is now cancelled and we'll start to work on getting that 5 percent removed from heat on a federal level.

Thanks to everyone who participated, especially those who remember signing the petition from our consumer group, and working for the group, all those years ago as well.

"We got it!"....

Never let a dream die, folks!

To add to today's victory for consumers here, there will still be a rebate program for those who need it most; those who will still find it hard to make ends meet. That's the part that Lorraine Michael worked so hard on to maintain, so, a big thanks to her for that!

I'll be back later tonight with another update on where prices will be going for this week's price change.

Regards,

George

Off and running...

So, now you know...

The petition drive has started and now it's your turn to help out by taking this link to the petition and getting it printed, send it back and get the mission done.

Here's the link...

We're hoping to have this back in our hands by the second week of May for presentation in the House of Assembly so, the faster this comes back to us, the better.

Or: You can sign it online at this link here.

The sooner that the government gets the message to remove the tax on heat, the better...

Thanks for everyone's help and encouragement on this. It's a monumental effort that, at this point in time, has to be done.

I'll be in touch!

Regards,

George

A time for action...

"Whereas; the high cost of energy is proving to be a hardship on the people of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and...

whereas; heat is a basic necessity of life and a lack of heat is a health concern,...

we, the undersigned residents of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador hereby urge the House of Assembly to ask the government of Newfoundland and Labrador to remove the provincial portion of the HST from all forms of heat"...

Hi to all...

Ten years ago, on March 28, 2001 our consumer group presented a petition to the House of Assembly requesting that the government of the day remove the tax on heat. Some 55, 000 consumers and residents of the province signed the petition to remove the tax, with those signatures being gathered over a period covering three weekends.

It was one of the largest petitions presented in the House of Assembly up to that point.

All three political parties spoke to the tax on this necessity of life with the governing liberals keeping the tax in place, as they would suffer a loss in revenue, and the conservatives promising to remove the tax if they ever formed the government.

How times have changed!

For the past seven years since the conservatives have formed government, and again on Tuesday, this government will again tell the people of the province of a burgeoning surplus all from improving oil royalties. We will be told that the province’s coffers are again, overflowing with the benefits of added oil revenue.A small part of that reason will also be due to the fact that, with the failure of the government to remove the tax on heat all those years ago, several million of that surplus may very well be because someone in this province had to make a choice between heat and food.

Again, on the tenth anniversary of the presentation of the petition in the House of Assembly, the people of the province will be asked to sign a petition to be presented to the premier and finance minister asking his government for the removal of the tax on heat.

This time it is different and, in some ways, a little more desperate. Oil prices are forecast to remain high for the long term, as are electricity rates also forecast to escalate in the coming years. There is no sign of relief in sight.

That quest begins Friday, April 15^th with the start of a movement to get the taxes taken off this necessity of life and also a growing health concern for everyone. With projections of rising electricity costs to consumers yet to come, and no retreat in sight for petroleum product users alike, consumers and residents will be asked to participate in sending a clear message to government. Collecting a tax on a necessity of life is unacceptable in a time when this government (and the federal government) both are enjoying the benefits from our natural resources, and just a short twenty four hours after government-owned NALCOR has applied to the Public Utilities Board for an electricity rate increase to come to consumers on July 1st, 2011...because of the rising cost of oil.

Clearly, it is time to give back to the people who will need it most! Energy costs are rising and no one deserves to pay for a necessity of life.

Tomorrow afternoon, the prayer of petition will be made available on the NDP Party website at www.nl.ndp.ca and also listed on my blog for download and completion. There will be an address to return the signed petition to.

As well, the petition will be emailed, or mailed, to every municipality that is in the 2010 municipal directory. We're hoping that every municipality will post this petition where everyone in their respective communities can avail and sign it, and then send it back to us for presentation in the House of Assembly.

If you do not have an email address but wish to help us in our quest to gather names for this petition, we're asking you to phone us at the NDP offices at (709)729-0270 and we will forward a petition off to you.

Please pass the petition around and get others to participate in this exercise.

There is no greater need, and the time has come to do this now...

Remember.

Oil is trading higher.

Electricity rates are going up.

...and someone out there is being forced to make tough choices.

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher

Consumer Group for Fair Gas prices

Numbers are in
But can they be trusted?

Hi to all...

After last weeks "shenanigans", I don't know what's going to happen with the numbers this week. I'll be blunt.

But, here's what I do have.

I haven't changed my sources or the way I have done things.

Let's see if they did...and see if my numbers come back on track. I know the "Stove" number is solid.

• Heating and stove oils show an added 2.88 cents up. Keep in mind again that the stove oil number is a rough guide on where heating oil numbers could go.The number is the same as the stove number in the non-winter season. During winter, they throw in kerosene into the stove oil number and that acts as an antifreeze agent.
• Diesel shows an added 2.0 cents a litre up, and...
• Gasoline shows an added 8/10ths of a cent.

There is volatility in the numbers.
The first five days of this session showed oil and related commodities up and still climbing from last week, all on steady demand and a draw-down on inventories.

And then the IMF and IEA weighed into the fray on Monday.

The last two days with the oil sell-off, numbers have been all over the place. It's a sign that markets are unsure and that there's some doubt over continuing demand for oil and it's related, refined product. That fact showed itself with the International Energy Agency adjusting its world demand figures for oil downwards. The reasons for that are quite apparent: that world economic recovery could be hindered by high energy prices.

That started the retreat and oil's strategic withdrawal.

That's it for me for this week, but keep an eye to your email for a special invite from this poster for later this week!

Regards,

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Here we go again...

Five days of data are in, and no, the numbers are not down.

Here's what I have for the first five days of this session, but I also have to warn that, because of the major disparities between the figures last week, I can't atone for the accuracy for this week coming. Either way, there's probably enough there to warrant that something is going to happen:

• Heating and stove oils show an added 3.27 cents a litre up.
• Gasoline is up by 1.3 cents, and...
• Diesel is up by 2.3 cents a litre.

I'll be in touch with updates on Monday and have a final figure for everyone on Tuesday night.

Regards,

George

Numbers off?

Sounds strange, I know, but true.

The numbers for heating oil were off but we already knew that that might happen. As I said often before that the winter heating blend was different and that we could only go by the stove oil number to use as a guide during winter months until I find a source for kerosene. That's because kerosene is used as an anti-freeze agent during the winter months on a 75/25% mixture. That's why the stove oil number was within the margin for error.

As for gasoline? Different story...

I've checked and re-checked, and they still show the same: that increases should have happened that would have taken gas up by five cents a litre.

Thankful?

Yes, but now people may be questioning my accuracy.

I've checked three sources online and all are showing that my numbers are dead on, so, I can't explain the differences. I even went to three different gasoline types and they all showed increases over the past week ranging close to 6.6 cents a litre on gasoline that was supposed to be there. That was for a reformulated blend out of New York harbour, as it is known in the markets.

Conspiracy?

I can't say, but it has been mentioned before that someone may be making calls to someone down the line to hold back on putting the full charge to the consumer in an attempt to discredit. But tonight, the reality is that we got tagged with 2.5 cents at the pumps rather than the five I had, and I really can't go searching for that extra 2.5 cents.

Maybe they made a mistake in their numbers, after all?...

Naaa!...

Maybe they're "banking on it" for later!

Regards,

George

Oil gains

Consumers to pay

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, April 05, 2011- Consumers will be taking another hit at the pumps this week, and prices for heating oil and diesel will continue to take a tole on consumers. That's from George Murphy, group researcher for the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"Blame it on Libya, the situation in the Middle East, North African unrest, or even steady demand, but the fact is that consumers should be pissed that, as a country that produces more than it consumes, we are subject to paying for fuels based on the world condition. I'm getting a little tired of hearing that our oil resources are sailing away for refining and to keep Uncle Sam happy, while we have our own citizenry freezing in the dark because of prices driven by speculators. It's high time that we saw the concept of 'Made in Canada pricing' for our own people through, and be damned the bottom line of the corporate bottom line." Murphy said.

"It's time we put in place a 'Newfoundland and Labrador first' policy on the further development of our own offshore resources, and it's time to start looking after our own people. We're just not seeing the full benefits of our resources. Food bank use is at an all-time high, the heating rebate buys a little less than a quarter tank of fuel now, food prices will continue upwards because of fuel surcharges, and pensioners haven't seen an increase in years. We have people choosing between food and keeping warm, and nothing is being done for the ones who need it most."

"The oil beat goes on."

"The numbers for this week are not good. Heating and stove oils are showing up again, this time by 1.24 cents a litre, diesel numbers are up by another 1.3 cents a litre and gasoline shows either 4.9 or an even five cents a litre increase on the way for Thursday.

"The only hope there is right now for us to see any relief is one of two things: a complete banking system collapse in the European Union, or a sudden drop in demand. While countries like Portugal have been showing signs of trouble in recent days with a huge bail-out needed for it's banking system, we still have not seen solid evidence of a drop in demand, especially in the United States. Prices still haven't taken their full hold of consumers pocketbooks yet."

-30-

For more information, contact;


George Murphy
group researcher/Member
Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Six days out and the seventh coming on...

Update, if you can call it that...

there won't be any drops in prices this week, suffice to say. here's what I have after six days:

• Heating and stove oils now show an added 1.05 cents a litre up.
• Diesel shows up by 1.2 cents, and...
• Gasoline now is up by 4.8 cents a litre.

I have to ask all of you out there "Do you think it's time for action on the tax on heat?". It became a topic during question period again after Lorraine Michael, leader of the provincial New Democratic Party, brought it up in the House of assembly here.

Drop me a line if you think so.

It's already a federal issue with the federal wing of the NDP carrying the removal of tax on heat as part of the party's platform.

I'll be back tomorrow night with the rest of the bad news for this week. Either way, we're not going to dodge this one and your heating bill will go up this week...

Regards,

George

After five days...

Here's a quick synopsis of what I have coming for this week, after today's trading:

• Heating and stove oils show a modest 8/10ths of a cent increase.
• Diesel shows an added penny to prices, and...
• Gasoline shows an added 4.6 cents a litre...Up!

I'll be back tomorrow night with a further addition to the numbers.

George

More studies needed

And the tax on heat has to go

After this little piece of economic news that could take a bite out of your wallet, maybe it's indeed time to take a serious look at which form of energy is cheaper for your home. CBC is reporting that your electricity costs are going to increase in the next few years.

Here's the link to the story: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/03/13/f-power-2020-rising-electricity-costs.html

Either way, looks like one of your necessities are going to be going up, all at a time when the Lower Churchill project is being touted as being a good thing to your wallet. I wonder do we still trust electricity to stay low in the future?

It appears that any home energy retrofit programming is going to be very busy in the coming years, that is, if you have one!

There is a definite need to have a national and provincial energy efficiency program that has constant and sustained programming and funding, something for which all parties in the country should be a part of and not just a single political party initiative.

It should also cross all income thresholds.

Just right now, this whole energy efficiency thing looks like it should be taken on an emergency perspective.

Again, to me, the tax on heat in the province, and the country for that matter, has got to go. Income levels are low amongst seniors and some income earners and electricity is being forecast as being unaffordable to most, as well is the cost of heating oil. Let';s take those tax dollars and leave in the hands of those who'll need it most.

We don't need anyone left behind, or below the poverty line.

Regards,

George

Oil remains elevated

An increase coming for gasoline prices

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, March 29, 2011- It's not often that George Murphy's numbers are wrong, but he's hoping that they are this time. Numbers are showing that consumers could see an additional 2.6 cents a litre up on gasoline prices for this week when the PUB adjusts prices this coming Thursday.

"Oil prices remained elevated this week after last week's modest retreat, gaining almost three bucks a barrel US, hitting a new record high since September of '08. We're right back to where we left off with gasoline prices edging upwards and heating oils remaining unaffordable to most. Something has to give. Consumers are going to have to start to let their wallets do the talking." Murphy said.

"Numbers show just a 9/100ths of a cent drop to heating and stove oils, a 4/10ths of a cent drop to diesel prices and a 2.6 cent a litre increase on the way for gasoline. The troubling thing about all this is that, after last weeks data, there was still a demand for gasoline and that helped support the high price. In spite of the rising price, inventories of gasoline continue to drop.

"Heating and stove oils are still showing signs that prices will not be coming down anytime soon. With oil prices up again because of demand and the world geo-political situation, I expect that they will remain high for some time to come. The provincial treasury will continue to reap the benefits of that while consumers will have to collectively start to impact inventories and demand itself. Right now, unless we see economic collapse or more banking problems out of the European Union, we're probably not going to see any relief in the interim".

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Sorry everyone, but with a federal election just around the corner, I felt that I should have some fun and give a little enlightenment at the same time.

Enjoy!

Top ten reasons why Harper will not form the next government and not win seats in Newfoundland and Labrador

10) He may be the Prime Minister, but he still “just doesn't get it”...

9) More cuts to government departments like Fisheries, ACOA and Marine Atlantic, just when we need those departments and agencies the most

8) Senate and/or plum appointments for M.P's who fell on the sword, or who have made sacrifices for Steve

7) Lack of a commitment for loan guarantees for the Lower Churchill project. They foot-drag on every issue pertinent to the province.

6) Not giving to veterans what they deserve after serving this country!

5) Bev Ota and Bruce Carson! Losing the confidence of the House certainly doesn't help, and when you hear about the constant skullduggery, the voters want the chance to say “I've have had enough!!”

4) Not paying enough attention to “people issues”, like the tax on heat, screwing with the GIS, and failing to address changes needed to the Canada Pension Plan. In a time when the government is projecting to be out of debt sooner rather than later, and also making billions in Newfoundland and Labrador oil revenues, it's time for strategic investment in looking after your people!

3) Failing to get a seat on the UN security council for what, the ninth year in a row, is it?

2) Canadian taxpayers just don't have the urge to spend $35 billion for US fighter jets that could face a couple of billion in cost over-runs.

...And the number one reason why Harper will not win a seat in Newfoundland and Labrador in the next federal election?

(Place drum roll here)...

#1) Newfoundland and Labrador continuously getting screwed on the Atlantic Accord. Harper still hasn't fixed it. And, while you're at it, how about that 8.5 per cent Hibernia stake?

That's it from me!....

I could have added a few more things, like treatment of Canadian protesters at the G-20 summit in Toronto, the billion dollars that was spent, the artificial fish pond, etc, but it's your turn now!

On the rise again

Distillates expected to increase

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, March 22, 2011- If the numbers are right, consumers will be paying more for distillate type fuels this coming Thursday when the Public Utilities Board adjusts prices. That's according to George Murphy, group researcher with the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

What the numbers say

"The numbers show distillate fuels will see another round of increases, while gasoline shows just a very slight drop, if anything at all." Murphy said. "I expect heating and stove oils to increase by another 77/100ths of a cent and diesel to increase by 1.3 cents a litre."

"Gasoline shows just a drop of three tenths of a cent, so if you account for my margin for error of just that same three tenths, there may be no change in gasoline prices this week, according to my numbers."

Oil faces a huge test

"Oil prices bounced back this past week, along with refined commodity prices as positive economic news and spreading unrest in North Africa and the Middle East continues to carry weight on traders in the marketplace. Oil prices also increased with optimism of a recovery of the Japanese economy after the earthquake and tsunami in the northeast of the country."

"Continuing concern on the part of consumers also will play into oil prices over the next little while as anger builds with oil's connection to higher consumer prices for other goods and services. People are genuinely angry over the fact that food prices have increased, particularly in the US, part and parcel with rising refined commodity prices. It's my belief that consumers will soon let their feelings known by curtailing spending because of a lack of disposable income, that's if they haven't already done so. Reports from the US already show a sudden drop in existing home sales that may be related to the possible downturn in consumer spending in the US."

"Consumers are watching their money disappear down the fill-pipe."

"Because of this, oil will have trouble seeing a continued climb in price in the long term. People are starting to make the choice between going out to a movie or staying home. Oil prices are simply not sustainable and the economy is being put on notice with signs of a slowdown in spending. I'd say that oil is simply just not sustainable at this level without having repercussions to the economy or to consumers. My guess is that the consumer is going to say 'no' shortly."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

After six days

Just for your information, and in spite of oil being back up around the $103 US a barrel mark again, the numbers aren't too bad. Here's what I have after six days of business:

• Heating and stove oils show an added 7/10ths of a cent.
• Diesel shows up by 1.3 cents a litre, and...
• Gasoline is down by a half cent.

Two things...

First, just a reminder that I cannot account for a lot of market volatility that comes from erratic performance of the markets, and there has been volatility these past couple of weeks!

Secondly, a reminder that when i quote my furnace oil numbers for the winter, they are just an indicator of the direction that furnace oil may go. It's solid for stove oil, but the winter blend of furnace oil here in Newfoundland and Labrador also includes a mix of kerosene as an anti-freeze agent, and I have no way to track kerosene to find out the proper numbers.

I'll be back tomorrow night with the final shot on what to expect for this week.

George

Government, we have a problem

I've been thinking again...

"Dangerous", the wife says...

"No, really", I say. "Think about it for a minute. I want to bounce a thought on you."

"Ok, if you must insist, and I don't get hurt." She's been victimized by my thinking before, and she's been a good victim about it. She knows the whole oil thing is on my mind again and it's inevitable it'll come up again in the house here, so I start talking.

"It's different this time," I'm thinking. "I haven't seen prices hang high like this without repercussions and it looks like oil's up to stay, and it worries me. We're back to a point where someone wants oil prices to stay up, and it's going to hurt a lot of people."

I'm rambling my thoughts again, but she's intent on letting me get to my point, so I go on.

"Prices are climbing too fast, to a point that even things touched by rising oil prices are getting unaffordable. Besides getting expensive to heat the house, it's getting costly to buy food. Are we in a new age of energy starvation, to the point that we're going to have to start getting serious about our spending for food? Don't get me wrong now! We're OK for now, but what if prices keep climbing? Are we ready for 'new age pricing'?"

I can't help but wonder...

I go on...

"So, oil prices are up and we're dealing with new problems. We have seniors and those on fixed pensions experiencing energy starvation and now we have people out there who are watching more of their power of purchase evaporate. We're getting less for more and we're not going to see oil prices drop for a long time yet, especially if the Middle East and North Africa keep playing a role in the markets. Here we are with people on fixed pensions and an artificial absorption of the inflation rate because we're seeing packages of goods getting smaller without prices going up. Then we hear the likes of Gaelan Weston say that prices across the board are going up by ten per cent because of rising fuel costs. I just get the feeling that the consumer is losing control."

"You're the one losing it." She says.

It's not the first time that I've rambled on with energy in mind, and deep down, she knows I'm right. Just the other day, I dropped into a store while out in the taxi. I'm looking at getting some change and the owner, Dwight tells me "They done it again! The package of Lay's over there? Another fifteen grams smaller and for the same price!" He screams.

"I can't wait to see what'll happen if they screw with the size of a milk carton."

It's bracket creep without the brackets. We're slowly getting squeezed by them without us noticing. We're getting pinched without the pain, and even if oil prices retreat, we're not going to see us get back the thing we're losing now with rising food prices: quantity.

"But the government is just as responsible for having to give back some of what is ours, is it not? With rising royalties, shouldn't we be demanding more of what they're collecting? Shouldn't we be getting our fair share? Where's the investment that will be necessary for the future if heating costs are going to go through the roof like they have been, and will be? Somethings fixed alright, and it's not pensions! They're leaving some people broke!"

I'm pensive again. There's a lot more happening out there than most realize, and this may be just the tip of the iceberg.

The future promises more of the same "household energy deficit", and it worries me.

Numbers are down

but for the wrong reasons

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, March 15, 2011- Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will experience something that they haven't seen in weeks when the PUB adjusts prices this Thursday. Lower prices. That word is from George Murphy, group researcher with the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"The numbers are all starting downward, and we're going to see a slight break at the pumps, but for all the wrong reasons, " said Murphy. "The situation immediately after the earthquake in Japan has the world monetary markets fearful over any economic recovery, especially after the impact the quake has had on Japan.

"I expect the real breaks to come next week, if this trend keeps up. Refined commodity prices began to be impacted by the Japan events today, and they signal a slight break to come for this Thursday. My numbers show heating and stove oils to drop by 72/100ths of a cent, diesel to drop by 7/10ths of a cent, and gasoline to drop by 1.4 cents a litre.

"Other areas of the country will see immediate effects of lower cash petroleum numbers. US consumers will see a drop of close on 16.2 US cents a gallon when they wake up tomorrow morning, welcome news for them as some areas have broken the four dollar a gallon mark.

"Here in Newfoundland and Labrador, if these numbers hold up, we could be looking at another drop of close on four to five cents a litre off gasoline, provided the situation in the markets remains as fluid as it is right now,. But anything could happen as regards to world events to change things again to send prices up. We still have the situation with unrest in the Middle East and North Africa as well as the European Union financial situation with some of its members that has yet to play out fully. While this small break was predicted a week ago, the drop in price was not supposed to be because a lot of people died in an earthquake-tsunami scenario.

"The situation in Japan has suddenly put pricing uncertainty back into markets that were already uneasy over the Middle East and North Africa. Over one million barrels a day refinery capacity has also been shut in where consumers there use almost 4.2 million barrels a day and already there are long lines for people looking for supplies. The economics of Japan's 'non-use' of crude oil at this point has put extra oil on the markets all of a sudden with faltering demand as well.

"Either way, numbers will be down, but I think we're all praying for Japan to recover from this one instead."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Six days in...

Here's what I have for this next regulatory session, six days reporting out of the seven needed.

• Heating, stove and diesel all show down by a half cent a litre.
• Gasoline is down by 7/10ths of a cent.

Not a big lot, but the numbers are down, and will probably be this way to finish the session tomorrow night.

While I predicted some very slight relief last week, I didn't expect that the disaster in Japan would be the reason why it would be so, or to be at least part of the reason why oil prices and its related refined commodities would perform.

My reasoning was simple really: that the "speculator industry" would go for a "take" and draw some profits from oil's run-up, giving consumers a small reprieve.

I'll be back tomorrow night with the last day of data and the best guess for the Thursday price change.

Regards,

George

As predicted last week, there will be another increase in pricing for this Thursday.

Middle East and Libya Continue to play a role on the numbers

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, March 07, 2011- After this weeks market activity, the numbers are there to show another round of increases is on the way for Newfoundland and Labrador consumers. That's according to George Murphy, group researcher with the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

"Numbers were all high again for the last week, but they also showed some sign of retreat with refined commodity prices," said Murphy."The last business day of this session was showing down from my weekly average, and that, I hope, is a sign of possible retreat for next week. All that might change however, with trouble brewing in Saudi Arabia and Iran."

"I expect heating and stove oils to increase by 2.58 cents, diesel to increase by 3.1 cents a litre, and gasoline to increase by 3.2 cents a litre.

Day of rage

"All now depends on the round of protests in Saudi Arabia, labeled by various groups as the "Day of Rage" in the country. Those protests have been planned for both March 11th and again on March 20th. If those protests fail in disrupting oil output or fail to cause any kind of a supply disruption, then we should see some sort of a retreat in prices that should happen quickly. If they do succeed, then the floodgates will be open to more increases in prices of petroleum product to consumers.

"It's not about money anymore to some of the protest groups in the Middle East or North Africa. People are demanding real reforms to happen. Barring that, they have been thwarted in attempts at political reforms, some groups getting small investments in job creation and housing in Saudi Arabia for example, and they have turned towards revolutionary stands against their old time leadership. Whatever political stripe the various groups represented before has been put on the back-burner. They have united under the one cause of making real change in their countries. It is all very interesting to watch."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy
Group researcher/Member
Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Update

Market sell-off at hand?

The "six day" is in.

With one day of data to come sometime tomorrow night, there's enough here to say that we're definitely going to take a hit here Thursday, all at the past weeks peril in North Africa and the Middle East.

Here's what I have so far:

• Heating and stove oils show 2.88 cents a litre up.
• Diesel shows 3.4 cents a litre up, and...
• Gasoline now shows 3.5 cents a litre up.

Today's trading was "different". A quick look at the numbers was the normal for the end of today, but it was at the same time "weird", to say the least. It was very hard to describe what I felt looking at those numbers, but let me try to describe what I felt.

The TSX was down somewhat, while oil prices were up. And with oil up, the Canadian dollar still slipped a little, and that was a noticeable slip under that guise, at least for me. The tendency is for the dollar to rise hand in hand with rising oil prices, but not today.

You could smell some trouble in the TSX being down. It's like someone was suddenly paying attention to all the "hype" over rising prices, and starting a revolt of their own, all at the traders expense. To me, just a small warning, or a shot across the bow of whoever is ignoring the possible recession message in higher oil prices.

All you could hear this past weekend was talk about holding on to what one had, and the supposed end of any economic recovery, if there was one to begin with.

Did the markets get the message about the crap investors are getting on with over Libya and Saudi Arabia and the possibility of $200 US a barrel oil??

I don't know. I just get the feeling though, that people are getting a little tired of getting screwed by the markets, let alone at the pumps, and not having the power to do anything about it. With that sentiment also comes the feeling that $200 US a barrel is just not in the cards for anyone no matter what happens in the Middle East. Maybe today's trading session was a warning that even oil prices are tenuous, and could drop out any second.

The rest of the week is going to be very interesting to watch indeed!

I'll be back tomorrow night with the final numbers.

Regards,

George

After five days, it doesn't look good

Hi to all...
The "five day" is in, and the news isn't good...Again!

Here's what I have after last night's electronic trading:

• Heating and stove oils are up by 2.9 cents a litre.
• Diesel prices show "up" by 3.4 cents, and...
• Gasoline is up by 3.7 cents a litre.

As of 9:00 A.M Newfoundland time, crude oil (WTI) was trading two bucks a barrel up at $106.42 with the unrest in Libya shutting in production still further amid continuing worries of further disruptions in the Middle east and North Africa.

How do you stop it?

I don't know, but I'm getting sick and tired of having to pay for it.

I'll be back tonight with an update on the numbers for today's trading.

George

Heating oil prices hit second highest price ever

Consumers to take a substantial hit this Thursday

Media release

Conception Bay South, NL, March 01, 2011- Consumers in Newfoundland and Labrador will get a severe shock when the Public Utilities Board adjusts fuel prices this coming Thursday. That's according to George Murphy, group researcher with the Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices.

What the numbers say

"As predicted last week, the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa are going to start to cost consumers and business severely for the long term, it appears. I have heating and stove oils to increase by 5.14 cents per litre and diesel to increase by 5.7 cents a litre," said Murphy.

"Gasoline prices are expected to increase by 5.3 cents per litre. All fuel prices will be adjusted to reflect the last week of market conditions this Thursday, and it's been a rough week."

Consumers will feel a bigger bite

"Consumers should expect to see elevated costs for foodstuff and, no doubt will be hearing of the potential for a hike in electricity rates as oil prices are expected to remain elevated for some time as there remains a heavy threat to supply of oil product to the world markets, especially from supply disruptions in Iran and Saudi Arabia. As I discovered about two weeks ago, there is a threat of supply disruptions coming out of OPEC's largest producer, Saudi Arabia, all geared to occur either March 11th or March 20th coming. If that occurs, then we have only seen the tip of the iceberg with prices. They'll have no where to go but up.

"Again, the consumer and business have to ask our government, if we, as a country, should be leaving ourselves open to world pricing pressures like this when this country is a net producer of oil, but exports the majority of it rather than keep it for domestic purposes. This will not be the last time consumers will see the effects of high energy pricing. We are already hearing that fuel surcharges are being instituted, or increased by the trucking companies and airlines. It's a matter of time before the airlines do the same thing, or Marine Atlantic also responds in kind leaving the consumer open to a higher rate of inflation than areas of the country not dependent on heavy transportation costs."

-30-

For more information, contact;

George Murphy

Group researcher/Member

Consumer Group for Fair Gas Prices

Ensuring political stability
Taking the pressure off food prices

With all the worries over oil supply the last couple of weeks, and no sign of abatement in the changing world geo-political situation forthcoming, the one big question that is being asked is 'How did it all start?'

The answer is simple really: Food prices.

Back in the initial run-up to record high oil prices during 2008, and again this year with increasing oil prices almost seeming the norm, some important food stuffs started to be spied as viable alternatives to the rising price of oil. Some of those important foods stuffs like wheat and corn were also seen as valuable additions to the petrochemical industry in their alternate form of ethanol. You just didn't have to sell your crop for food anymore. You could sell it to someone who would squeeze the cellulose fibre out if it, let it ferment, and make ethanol out of the mix.

The farmer thus became an important component in the petrochemical industry and the price for his, or her crop, went up.

With a huge demand for ethanol that is derived from wheat and corn, along with other fibrous foods, it could not be avoided on the part of farmers worldwide to sell their crops to the highest bidders after watching prices far outstrip what consumers were paying for basic consumption use. Rioting started when people went hungry and food became unaffordable.

No longer was wheat used for the basics like cereals and bread, it had now become of value in the petrochemical industry, filling a gargantuan hole in the additives and oxygenate markets. Human need was competing with Big Oil, and losing.

How do we fix the problem?

The other option
While attention has been given to high yield from various fibre crops like corn and wheat, very little attention has been paid to finding other viable forms of cellulose fibre.

With the forestry industries of Europe and North America at a standstill, and the age of the paper mill hanging in the balance, governments everywhere have yet to turn their eyes to the other renewable resources out there that can help provide that viable alternative fibre source to help in the manufacture of ethanol's close cousin, methanol. For North America and its displaced forestry industry, that answer may very well lie in the manufacture of methanol as the alternative oxygenate for the oil industry.

At the same time as putting people to work, the development of methanol can help take the pressure off wheat and corn prices, while at the same time, feeding the wolds hungry and helping fulfill the needs of the oil industry and environmentalists for cleaner burning fuels.

Perhaps it's both time for governments everywhere to look at the alternatives to ethanol use and, at the same time, ensure that food comes to those who need it most at the most affordable of prices.

Manufactured right here?
Newfoundland and Labrador can play an important role in the development of the methanol industry. With a paper mill closed and one in trouble, there is no doubt that there is a need to find an alternate use for mill fibre besides the traditional paper making role. Cellulose fibre from wood can be used in an experiment to study the viability of methanol manufacture from our Canadian wood sources. If the theory of making methanol from wood fibre is successful, we sit close to world routes for the export of the alternate oxygenate and we put people to work. In some small way, we contribute to feeding the world's hunger problem at the same time as satisfying the need of the petrochemical industry's need for a new oxygenate to ensure a cleaner burning fuel.

Perhaps it's time we ask the government to make use of the Brookfield Road forestry and agriculture facility and look at helping the world solve a problem that may be readily overcome.

Numbers
Here's what I have with six days out of seven reporting:

• Heating and stove oils show "up" by 4.88 cents per litre.
• Diesel is up by 5.4 cents per litre, and...
• Gasoline is up by 4.9 cents.

I'll be back tonight with final numbers for Thursday!

Regards,

George