YELLOWKNIFE (March 8) - Minister Responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation Roger T. Allen and Minister of Finance Joe Handley yesterday released details of the GNWT's initiative to assist homeowners and renters in coping with the increased cost of heating oil, propane and natural gas.

The Fuel Rebate Initiative will provide eligible applicants whose annual household income is below $75,000.00 with a one-time fuel rebate: $320 for homeowners and renters who directly pay for all fuel costs; and $150 for renters who indirectly pay for fuel costs. Applicants with a total household income above $75,000.00 but below $85,000.00 may be eligible for 50% of the rebate.

Qualifying households must also meet specific program criteria. Restrictions apply to residents who receive various forms of rent subsidies and to residents who already receive some form of fuel subsidy. Seniors who receive the Fossil Fuel Subsidy are still eligible to receive assistance under this initiative.

Fuel Rebate Initiative guidelines and application forms will be available in all communities next week at the Local Housing Organization offices, Band/Municipal offices and all District offices of the NWT Housing Corporation. Applications and guidelines are also available on the NWT Housing Corporation web page at http://nwthc.gov.nt.ca.

Applications must be received at the NWT Housing Corporation Headquarters in Yellowknife or be postmarked on or before, March 31, 2001. Qualifying recipients will receive their rebate within a month of receipt and approval of their application.

Further information for all residents will be provided early next week through the various media outlets in the NWT.