Backlash is growing in some rural communities over a proposed high-speed rail line between Toronto and Quebec City. The Prime Minister is promising major economic benefits, but residents along the potential route worry they will bear the brunt of the costs.

Ashley Burke of CBC News reported from Montreal, noting the political landscape includes considered safe Liberal seats in Ontario and a tight race in Quebec. Burke stated that the Bloc Québécois is attempting to regain a seat in Quebec. Liberals have indicated a majority government would provide more stability, but are mixed on the immediate impact of such a shift.

Burke also reported on cooperation between the Conservatives and the government, stating that things have been “moving through the House in a fairly strong way” since January. She questioned whether a Liberal majority would significantly alter this dynamic, adding, “Wouldn’t change that much right now? I don’t know.” Burke also noted concerns about obstructionism from Mr. Palioov, stating, “Wouldn’t take it to the bank that Mr. Palioov isn’t going to change his mind on that and we’ve seen the obstruction that has happened within Parliament under Mr. Palioov for a long, long time.” She believes the situation provides the government with the ability to “actually be thinking forward.”

Farmers Fear Land Loss

Farming has sustained Sam Putzel for 50 years. Putzel hopes to pass on the land to new farmers learning the craft, describing it as “a way of life.” She stated, “We live together in harmony, the animals and I.” Recently, she received a request from Alto, the Crown Corporation working to build the high-speed rail, for voluntary participation in an environmental assessment of her farm.

The federal government says the high-speed rail could be transformative and create more than 50,000 jobs. Putzel expressed concern that the train could run directly through her farm, stating that any compensation offered would not be sufficient. “What would I want with the money?” she asked. “The farm. When I have everything I could possibly want that has no value in money.”

Alto has identified a large potential corridor for the rail line but has not yet decided on a specific route. The corridor is expected to be narrowed in the coming months. Attendees at an information session in Van Cleague Hill reported receiving “very few answers” to their questions about the project. The potential impact of the high-speed rail remains a significant concern for residents.