Montreal, Laval, and Longueuil Mayors Demand Action from Quebec Government on Public Transit Deficit

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante, Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer, and Longueuil Mayor Catherine Fournier joined forces on Tuesday to express their frustration with the lack of response from the Quebec government regarding the growing deficit faced by their public transit agencies.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a significant decrease in ridership, the municipalities argue that the public transit agencies are unable to cope with the financial strain, despite their efforts to optimize budgets.

Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault presented an offer earlier in the month, proposing that the province cover 20% of the deficit. However, the mayors countered with a request for 75% coverage, stating that the minister’s offer would impose an unaffordable burden of $1.3 billion on the cities.

“This is not a matter of mismanaging funds,” Plante emphasized during a press conference. “It is unfair for cities to beg for assistance from a partner that should be contributing.”

Plante revealed that the mayors had met with Guilbault the previous week but have yet to receive a response. She expressed disappointment in the negotiation process, which she believed would involve discussions rather than merely bargaining.

Guilbault, however, rebutted the claim of “radio silence,” citing ongoing communication between the government and the mayors. She accused the cities of prolonging the negotiations by taking 11 days to respond to her initial offer and by presenting an unrealistic counter-offer.

“As a government, we simply do not have the funds required,” Guilbault stated. “We have numerous expenses to cover, including those related to ongoing negotiations in the public sector.”

Opposition parties questioned Guilbault’s explanation in the parliamentary question period. Québec Solidaire co-spokesperson Manon Massé argued that it would be the workers who suffer from increased ticket prices and service cuts. She emphasized the importance of a fair solution that does not burden the general population.

Interim Quebec Liberal Party leader Marc Tanguay also expressed skepticism about the government’s financial difficulties. He emphasized the need for proper administration of public funds.

Despite the challenges, Guilbault reiterated that her government has made substantial investments in public transit. She promised to present a new offer to the cities by the end of the week. The City of Montreal is scheduled to present its budget on November 15.