Ontario’s Liberal Party is calling for a formal investigation into the sudden termination of a major rail modernization contract between Metrolinx and ONxpress, a move they say could delay transit upgrades, cost jobs, and shake public trust in the province’s infrastructure planning.
Liberal MPP Andrea Hazell has submitted a written request to Ontario’s Auditor General, asking for a full value-for-money audit into the shelved agreement — a 25-year partnership with ONxpress, a consortium including Deutsche Bahn and Aecon Concessions, originally intended to transform GO Transit rail services across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
“This contract was a cornerstone of Ontario’s GO rail electrification project—an initiative designed to modernize commuter transit, cut emissions, and better serve over 7 million residents,” Hazell wrote. “Its abrupt cancellation threatens years of delays, potential job losses, and serious disruptions to GO Transit and UP Express services.”
The deal, publicly announced in early 2024, was expected to deliver faster and more frequent train service under ONxpress’s leadership. However, Metrolinx confirmed this month that the agreement had been terminated, just months before full implementation was scheduled for January 2025. While the agency stated both sides are working toward an amicable settlement, it has yet to disclose the reasons behind the decision or the financial consequences.
Hazell’s request also presses for answers on the procurement process that led to ONxpress being selected, and whether the province protected taxpayers from risk. The Auditor General’s office responded that while the issue is not part of its finalized 2025 audit plan, it could be considered for future reviews. It also advised Hazell to raise the matter in a legislative committee to pursue further scrutiny.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria declined to comment on the specifics of the cancellation but defended the government’s approach. “Everything we do, we think fully through it and we do for the betterment of transit riders,” he said, noting the province remains committed to other transit priorities.
The collapsed contract raises broader concerns about transparency and accountability in Ontario’s multibillion-dollar infrastructure projects. With key details still undisclosed, pressure is mounting on the Ford government to explain the breakdown and its implications for the future of public transit in the region.