Referencing the stir created by the Harmonized Sales Tax in Premier Dalton McGuinty’s hometown, Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath today demanded Ottawa residents and business owners have their say on how the new tax will affect their everyday activities.

During Question Period, Horwath called on the Premier to agree to hold public hearings on the controversial tax in Ottawa.

This comes on the heels of Ottawa realtors reporting that the HST will add $1,449 to the cost of purchasing a home. Local homebuilders agree, saying the HST will have a negative impact on everything from home buying to home renovations.

“Clearly, Ottawa residents realize the HST will make life more expensive for families and business owners see it as yet one more obstacle to overcome as they struggle to get through this recession,” said Horwath.

“Ottawa residents and business owners agree that the HST is the wrong tax at the wrong time. Why is the Premier muzzling them by refusing HST public hearings in Ottawa?” she asked.