The cost of a referendum would likely be higher than the carbon tax in its first year or two. The carbon tax BC brought forward years ago has not harmed the economy; rather BC has the strongest economy in Canada.  The amount that gas goes up and down at the pumps completely obscures whether there's a carbon tax or not, at least for consumers.  The price just jumped about 9 cents a litre this week where I live.  Pure profit motive for gas retailers.  Why don't you ask for a referendum on that?

Referenda don't guarantee any application of intelligence or knowledge, but just strong opinions, many uninformed.  Why do we want government to rule by uninformed popularity contests that reflect our most selfish instincts?  I think we elect people to try to get at the best plan.

What the world needs of us is actually a higher carbon tax, sooner, and no expansion of fossil fuel extraction.  Maybe you should count your blessings that Trudeau lacks the courage to do what's needed.