Poilievre calls for cancellation of proposed Toronto–Quebec City high-speed rail project

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling on the federal government to cancel a proposed high-speed rail line between Toronto and Quebec City, describing the նախագproject as a costly and disruptive initiative.

Speaking to reporters in Peterborough, Ont., on Tuesday, Poilievre said the estimated $90 billion plan would not deliver value for taxpayers. He alleged the project would negatively affect farmland and private property along the proposed corridor, though detailed route impacts have not been independently verified.

Poilievre also questioned the accessibility of the service, stating that some communities along the route would not have designated stops and therefore would see limited local benefit. He added that the timeline for the rail line, which he said may not be operational before 2037, raises further concerns about feasibility and cost.

The comments come as the federal government has outlined early-stage plans for high-speed rail development. According to government statements, the first phase of the նախագproject is expected to focus on a corridor between Montreal and Ottawa, with construction potentially beginning in 2029 or 2030.