NDP: Ford’s Conservatives say ‘no’ to expanded GO train service for Kitchener

QUEEN’S PARK – Ford’s Conservatives showed how much they prioritize the people of Kitchener-Waterloo when they voted against an Ontario NDP motion calling for expanded, two-way, all-day GO train service between Kitchener and Toronto’s Union Station today.

“People in Kitchener-Waterloo are getting left behind by Ford’s government without consistent and reliable GO train service,” said Official Opposition NDP Leader Marit Stiles. “We’ve been listening to the Kitchener community, and we know how passionate and excited people are for expanded, reliable GO transit in the region. Today would’ve been an important next step to making that a reality.”

Stiles and the NDP tabled a motion calling for a clear timeline and firm funding commitment for expanded, two-way, all-day GO train service. Ford’s Conservatives voted against it, once again leaving Kitchener-Waterloo residents in the dark about when they can finally expect expanded service.

“The people of Waterloo Region need, and deserve, all-day, every-day, two-way GO trains from Kitchener to Toronto,” said MPP Catherine Fife. “The people of my community have been advocating for expanded service – and I will fight alongside them until we make it happen.”

Earlier this year, Fife brought forward a petition calling for expanded GO service in Kitchener, which features thousands of signatures collected mainly by students in Kitchener-Waterloo. In June 2023, the Waterloo Regional chair sent a letter to Ford echoing calls for expanded service.

MPP Fife and the Ontario NDP have been calling for expanded GO service for Kitchener since 2012. The Ontario Liberal government of the day promised two-way, all-day service by 2024 but their plans stalled. Ford’s Conservatives have maintained the promise but can’t say when—or if—they’ll finally deliver.