Ottawa, ON – Today, Gaétan Malette, Conservative Member of Parliament for Kapuskasing—Timmins—Mushkegowuk, released the following statement on his petition e-7277 that would designate Trans-Canada Highway 11 as a Project of National Interest:
“The Trans-Canada Highway was built on the founding principle of connecting Canadians from British Columbia to Newfoundland together via a single highway. Since the passage of the Trans-Canada Highway Act in 1949, governments have continued the project of nation-building by developing our existing highway infrastructure to strengthen interprovincial transportation.
“Sadly, for many Northern Ontarians, the segment of the highway that runs through their communities has been neglected for too long. Driving Highway 11 has become a source of fear rather than routine travel, of which many members of my community can attest to.
“A few weeks ago, I placed my Motion M-26 on notice, which would designate the Trans-Canada Highway 11 as a project of national interest to provide the upgrades needed to protect the safety of travellers and ensure the reliable interprovincial movement of goods.
“Today, I am calling on Canadians to sign petition e-7227, which calls on the government to designate the highway and highlights the need for security and reliability along this vital route. I invite Canadians from coast to coast to join me in advocating for safer travel along the Trans-Canada Highway.
“Supporting a safer and more reliable highway is not only a transportation project; it will support Canada’s economic stability, supply chain resilience, national security and regional development.”