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The Ontario government says it will scrap the controversial “eco fee” for 90 days to develop a new system “that works for consumers,” but will kick in $5-million during that time to make up for the money no longer being charged to consumers at the cash register.

Speaking to reporters this morning at Queen’s Park, Environment Minister John Gerretsen said the government could have done a better job at communicating how the program, which is administered by Stewardship Ontario, works, saying “consumers and businesses were not well informed.”

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“I take full responsibility for that,” he said, but stopped short of apologizing to consumers who have already paid the sometimes-hidden fees and who are unlikely to get a refund.

“We all have a role to play in keeping dangerous materials out of our environment by diverting waste — but not at the expense of consumers’ trust.

That is why we are taking action now to address fees, increase consumer protection and completely review the program,” Mr. Gerretsen said.