First off, Lunn lied when responding to a question about cutting the Energuide program. Lunn argued that that program was still operational until March 1/07, the "checks are still flowing". Lunn attempted to show that, in fact, there was an overlap between the two programs, so the government hadn't missed a beat. Lunn failed to mention that auditors were fired within 24 hours of the government announcement last spring. All that is left of the program, a few accounting loose ends. To paint the program as still functional demonstrates how desperate the Conservatives have become.
It would appear that the Conservatives have actually weakened the old Liberal program. The Energuide program had two audits, while the Tory plan will only have an initial audit, with NO follow-up to verify actual results. This approach will reduce the administrative cost, but what of accountability?? The Tories also have done nothing, despite advice, to deal with low-income and seniors who want to participate, but don't have $15000 for new windows.
Lunn made two curious points. Lunn argued that the investment was more than a potential $5000 because you need to look at the subsequent savings to the environment, year after year. In other words, the program has an unending positive impact. Good point Mr. Lunn, which is exactly why the Tory argument about administrative fees with regard to Energuide was a bogus proposition. The initial 50% administrative cost was a one-time expenditure, while the savings to the environment and the homeowner went on "year after year". Lunn also stated that only 30% of people who had the initial audit had actually followed through with the renovations. Elizabeth May had the line of the day, saying she was one of those 70% who hadn't completed the program yet, as a result of the program being cancelled. How many other people were still moving through the process, when the Conservatives canned the program?
Everybody recognizes that this latest announcement is a fraud, nothing more than a re-tool, which might actually be worse. The situation is so pathetic, this is how Craig Oliver starts off his interview with Gary Lunn:
But really, it's a program you stole off the Liberals, why don't you admit that and then we want to hear how you are going to do it.
Nobody is buying, the transparency so profound.