(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Fewer adults in Canada report setbacks due to increased fuel costs, according to a poll by Angus Reid Strategies. 56 per cent of respondents say recent price increases in gasoline have caused a financial hardship in their households, down 10 points since May.

In May, a survey of 60 Canadian communities released by MJ Ervin & Associates found that the average cost for a litre of gas in the country stood at $1.15 Cdn., a two-year high. In mid-July, the average cost fell to $1.06 Cdn. 50 per cent of respondents say they are driving less than usual due to high gas prices, 35 per cent are filling their car up with less gas, 21 per cent are walking to destinations more, and 12 per cent have taken public transit more often.

On Jul. 6, Canadian prime minister Stephen Harper discussed his plan to offer government subsidies for ethanol and bio-diesel, saying, "With leading-edge technology and abundant supplies of grains, oilseeds, and other feedstocks, Canada is uniquely positioned to become a global leader in the production of bio-fuels."

Polling Data

Have recent price increases in gasoline caused any financial hardship for you or others in your household?

Due to the recent price increases in gasoline, have you done any of the following activities? Check all that apply.

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