“I want the government to know farmers from my riding are mad. They don't like a train project. I want the minister to meet them and answer questions. The government shouldn't take their land.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
Rail Transportation
A debate on a proposed high-speed rail project that would involve significant government spending and potential expropriation of farmland. The Bloc Quebecois listed several conditions they wanted met before supporting it. The Liberals insisted they respect farmers but want to press ahead with the costly rail line, arguing it will boost trade and help the economy. Conservatives questioned the financial sense of the project given its huge price tag amid an affordability crisis for many Canadians. The Liberals responded that recent federal benefit payments show they are aware of Canadians' struggles but still think this $100+ billion rail project is worthwhile.
“I don't need your help to talk to farmers. I already talk to them. I promise we will build this train with concern for farmers. The Bloc Quebecois used to support this project. Now they don't. Trains need tracks on the ground.”
“Thanks for the offer of a car ride and music. But really, I'm not satisfied. You didn't meet our four conditions. Farmers are mad. The train company is already on their land doing tests. The train company wants to send in drones when farmers say no. This debate isn't over. It's just starting.”
“I don't need your help to meet farmers. I can drive there myself. I listen to farmers carefully. But I still want to build this big train project connecting Quebec cities. We'll respect everyone's views... while still doing the project.”
“You won't listen to farmers about this train! Lots of people came to complain. They don't want their land split in two. The Prime Minister should stop this train project. It's bad!”
“I want you to think the Conservatives are against progress and technology. Europe has high-speed trains and farms, so Canada can too. Conservatives should support this train project. It will change the country!”
“Why don't you go talk to the farmers yourself? Experts say your train project is irresponsible. It will need lots of subsidies. Liberals want a train that doesn't make sense. That money should be spent on other infrastructure to help farmers. When will you spend money on useful things?”
“I have a big vision that the government should build a high-speed train. Never mind the cost. The government controlling and building big projects means creating wealth. Wealth is whatever the government builds.”
“The government wants to spend over $100 billion on a train. Canadians are struggling to afford food. That's unreasonable.”
“I want to spend lots of money on high-speed rail. It will be good for the economy. It will help us reach net zero. I don't care if people can't afford food.”
“I don't think you heard me. Canadians are struggling. They can't afford food. And you want to throw money at a fancy train? Come on. You're out of touch.”
“You say people are struggling, but we sent out some money on Friday. And now we're spending a lot more on this train. It's an investment!”