Air Transportation

During Question Period, the Bloc Québécois asked about reports that the government plans to privatize Canada’s four major airports, including Montreal–Trudeau, saying the airport is key to Quebec’s economy and could end up owned by private or foreign interests, and asking whether Quebec was consulted. The government replied that it is moving forward with a plan to invest in airports and regional air routes across the country, and that Canadian pension funds, including Quebec’s Caisse de dépôt, already operate airports abroad and could do the same in Canada so Canadians benefit.Written by AI from the debate. Updated .

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2 statements

Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

Liberal
“We must invest in local air routes, airports, and connections for all Canadians. That is why we are using a new plan to invest in our airports and improve air travel.”
  • Government answer in Question Period

    Relevance 46 of 100

    None of this answer addressed the specific question that was asked.

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Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, investing in our regional routes across Canada, including in the regions of Quebec, is essential. Investing in our airport infrastructure across the country is essential. Investing in real and virtual connections for all Canadians is essential. That is why we are moving forward with a model where we can have investments in our airports to allow the government to better serve Canadians through air transportation.

Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

Liberal
“Canadian pension funds already run airports in other countries. I want them to invest in Canadian airports too, so Canadians get the benefits.”
  • Government answer in Question Period

    Relevance 46 of 100

    None of this answer addressed the specific question that was asked.

    See full analysis
Official Hansard

Mr. Speaker, if we take a look around the world, what do we see? Canadians’ pension funds, including funds such as the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, are not only investing but they are also operating airports in Australia, Asia and across Europe. We believe that, since Canada is lagging behind in this area, it is high time that our pension funds are brought home and invested in our airports. That way, this expertise benefits Canadians.

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