Gas plant money could have been used in the north, MP charges

Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli says the Liberals owe Ontario residents — especially those in northeastern Ontario — an explanation about spending when it comes to transit.

During Question Period on Tuesday, Fedeli accused the government of mismanaging money, saying money used to re-locate two gas power plants in southern Ontario could have been used for transit and infrastructure.

The decision to relocate the two plants is estimated to cost more than $500 million.

"On a personal note, how can you explain to the residents of northern Ontario you can't afford Ontario Northland," Fedeli asked Wynne.

"How can Ontarians trust you with even one more nickel of their money?"

Premier Wynne said the government established an advisory panel about the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission to get feedback from northerners.

"The advisory panel will look at what the options are and make sound decisions on that issue," she responded.

Wynne also said there needs to be a rational transportation plan for all of northern Ontario — not just in the northeast.

Fedeli has stated earlier he wants the province to put the brakes on the sale of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission and wait for the findings of the auditor general's report.  He has called the divestment of the ONTC a "fire sale," and says the commission should stay in public hands.