QUESTION PERIOD — Transport
High-Speed Rail
November 25, 2025
Will the Government Representative explain how and why the federal government is showing leadership by proposing that Parliament invoke the declaratory power in relation to the high-speed rail corridor between Quebec and Ontario in Division 1, Part 5 in the Budget Implementation Act?
This is an important infrastructure project. The government is committed to go forward rapidly with that project. The magnitude and the nature of the project is still raising questions, but the government is committed to proceeding in an expedient way to enhance public transportation between Ontario and Quebec.
This is a major investment. This is a major project. There is a clear commitment by the government concerning that project.
Could the government confirm if they had the political consent of the National Assembly of Quebec and Legislative Assembly of Ontario prior to proposing the use of the declaratory power?
At first glance, the use of the declaratory power, Bill C-15, affects the property and civil rights of the provinces by preventing landowners in Quebec and Ontario from either selling or building on their private property for up to four years if it might be needed rather than actually required for the high-speed rail corridor.
I can confirm that there is ongoing discussion with the Government of Ontario and the Government of Quebec, with stakeholders and the local communities that are impacted by the realization of that important project. This is to find a better way to proceed and to have that project built with respect to all stakeholders’ interests.
