Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank His Worship for the question.
House of Commons photoWon his last election, in 2000, with 67% of the vote.
Toronto Waterfront March 28th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank His Worship for the question.
Billboards March 28th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, these are federal properties and I believe the federal legislation will apply.
I must however contact the president of the bridge corporation for clarification.
Toronto Waterfront March 27th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, this is a very good day for Toronto and for Canada. We have a report that will transform the port lands and the entire shore in the greater Toronto area into a world class commercial, residential and recreational facility. If this goes ahead, this will be the largest urban redevelopment in world history, twice as large as Canary Wharf.
The Government of Canada will want to work with the local authorities to realize this dream. If we do realize this dream, I am sure that it will assist Toronto in being awarded the 2008 Summer and Para Olympics.
Aéroports De Montréal March 27th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, reports on the management of Aéroports de Montréal in the papers are troubling. However, I must say that it is functioning well.
As members know, the administration of the Montreal airports is the responsibility of a committee in the region. I have spoken with my officials and hope to have more details shortly.
Billboards March 27th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, I should point out that the federal government has exclusive jurisdiction over building billboards on bridges. Decisions were made in the best interests of motorists in the Montreal region.
Billboards March 27th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, we believe that the paramount issue here is road safety. These signs were erected to assist drivers in the Montreal area coming across very crowded bridges each day.
There were consultations with provincial authorities before the signs were erected. We believe they fully comply with the spirit of the law. Certainly we believe they will be of great benefit to motorists in the Montreal area.
Federal Bridge Corporation March 20th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, the Federal Bridge Corporation complies with all provincial and municipal regulations and bylaws. There is no problem.
Federal Bridge Corporation March 20th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, the Federal Bridge Corporation consulted all the authorities—and the Sûreté du Québec in particular—in the area of bridge safety.
The corporation did the right thing for all those who use bridges every day in Montreal. There is no problem on our side.
Railways March 17th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, as you know there has been extensive debate and analysis of all the options on the future of passenger rail transportation.
The standing committee talked about the renaissance of passenger rail. The government is committed to the renaissance of passenger rail. Very shortly I will be making an announcement that will guarantee passenger rail service we can be proud of for future years.
Railways March 17th, 2000
Mr. Speaker, I think we should look at this proposed consolidation of the railways as a great opportunity for a great Canadian company. Obviously there are ramifications to the transportation policy that have to be examined.
I do not think it is particularly wise or acceptable to have Canadians go to Washington for the surface transportation board hearings all the time. I think we have to find some way here in Canada to formalize hearings on the particular merger. Perhaps that is through the standing committee. I will have a chat with my good friend the chairman of the standing committee about that in the next few days.