FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE: Funding Announcement Makes Clear Transit Not a Priority for Sutcliffe, Says Horizon Ottawa
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE: Horizon Ottawa Welcomes Announcement of Judicial Inquiry into LRT by Province
OTTAWA - Horizon Ottawa is welcoming a move from the provincial government on their announcement today that they are holding a full public judicial inquiry into the City’s dealings around the LRT. Horizon Ottawa along with a number of community groups and residents from across the city had been calling for a judicial inquiry since the second derailment on September 19th. Councillor Catherine McKenney brought a motion to City Council around an inquiry earlier last month and again this month but it was defeated both times.
“Our organization is the last to support the Ford government but we’re happy to see this announcement to finally hold Jim Watson and his clique at City Hall accountable.” Said Sam Hersh, a Board Member of Horizon Ottawa. “This is not because of the good graces of the Ford government but as a result of a hard push from those in the community.”
The announcement for a judicial inquiry came on the same day as the media released an article revealing that the city knew about reliability issues before accepting the LRT system. The article revealed that former OC Transpo head, John Manconi sent several e-mails to the Rideau Transit Group showing his dismay before the launch. The week prior, an article had also been released revealing a former chief LRT consultant admitting he would be “screwed” if a judicial inquiry were to be announced.
“Stories in the media over the past couple of weeks have revealed that there is no reason not to be holding a judicial inquiry.” Said Hersh. “Today is a victory for Ottawa residents and a victory for transit riders who have suffered as a result of a P3 deal that has always put the interest of private companies and politicians ahead of the public.”
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For Media Inquiries:
Sam Hersh
613-663-7018
