It appears the provincial government has no plans on turning winter road maintenance over to public hands.
The NDP is calling on public sector control over snow clearing concerns across Ontario after learning of a new deal between the province and Carillion Canada.
However, Minister of Transportation Kathryn McGarry says the status quo is working.
“I want to be very clear that winter maintenance operations in all contract areas in Ontario have continued without any reduction in the required service levels. Ministry staff are working closely with Carillion Canada so that Ontario’s roads and highways continue to be maintained and cleared to our high standards.
I can confirm that under this arrangement between the ministry and Carillion, we are paying some key suppliers directly for critical tools like road salt and equipment repair and leasing. We’re only paying Carillion for the services they provide, not paying any of Carillion’s corporate costs. We’re closely monitoring all funds paid to Carillion, which are kept in a separate bank account, to verify that all employees are being paid.”
She also accuses the opposition of fear mongering.
(File photo)