“The government is spending too much money on a train for city people. They didn't ask farmers. Farmers in Quebec lose land but get nothing out of it. Why should Quebec regions pay for this expensive toy?”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
Rail Transportation
A debate about a $90 billion high-speed rail project in Quebec. The Conservatives argued it will destroy farms and only benefit Liberal cronies, while the Liberals claimed it was part of their election platform and will create jobs and economic growth. The Liberals also argued that only a narrow 60 meter corridor would be taken and now is the time for the country's largest ever infrastructure project.
“Quebec voters elected us. We promised them a train. Trains mean jobs. Nobody can be against jobs and GDP.”
“They promised a train. The train has bureaucrats making big money. But no train. Now everyone has to pay thousands and farmers lose their land. I don't care if they voted for it. This train is a money hole.”
“I want this big train project to happen. We should spend lots of money on it. It will only take a little bit of land. Ignore the problems. Let's go!”