NDP: Finch West LRT issues underscore need for Metrolinx inquiry

QUEEN’S PARK — While the Finch West LRT is now finally open, service disruptions and slow travel times have plagued commuters. The early days for the new transit line were capped off by a Toronto man out-running the LRT on foot — by 18 minutes.

Ontario’s New Democrats say it’s time to end the disruptions facing the community, and begin a full inquiry into Metrolinx to prevent future issues with public transit.

“Our community has endured many long years of construction only to have a jogger outrun the train,” said NDP MPP Tom Rakocevic (Humber River—Black Creek). “This entire process has been incredibly disruptive to their lives, and livelihoods.

“The Finch West LRT is vital for our community, but a great deal of money, time, and patience have gone into the project. The quality of service that commuters get should reflect that.”

Shadow Transit Minister Doly Begum (Scarborough Southwest) says the difficulties with the line’s opening highlight the need for a public inquiry into Metrolinx.

“Metrolinx is quick to blame the TTC, or the City of Toronto, but it’s time for them to be accountable to Ontarians,” said Begum. “The people deserve to know why this rollout has been so rough, and what extra costs are going to be felt by our province’s taxpayers.

“The Ford government must launch a full inquiry into Metrolinx. Anything less is allowing them to continue lighting billions of taxpayer dollars on fire with impunity, while their overpaid executive staff continues its refusal to provide answers.”