Local MP Michael Barrett calls for ethics probe into finance minister over Alto rail project

Barrett says an investigation is needed to determine whether the minister violated federal ethics laws and to maintain public confidence in government decision-making

Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes Conservative MP Michael Barret is calling for an ethics investigation into Canada’s finance minister over alleged conflicts of interest tied to the Alto high-speed rail project.

Barrett, the Conservative shadow minister for ethics and accountable government, has written to the federal ethics commissioner asking for a formal probe into François-Philippe Champagne.

Barrett alleges Champagne may have breached the Conflict of Interest Act through decisions connected to the Alto high-speed rail initiative, where his partner, Anne-Marie Gaudet, works as a vice-president.

Gaudet is employed by Alto, a subsidiary of VIA Rail Canada, which is leading plans for a high-speed rail line between Toronto and Quebec City.

In his letter, Barrett argues the finance minister played a central role in advancing the project through the 2025 federal budget and related legislation, including the Budget Implementation Act.

He claims those decisions, along with multiple votes and appearances in Parliament supporting the project, may have furthered the private interests of someone close to the minister.

Barrett is also questioning the existence and application of what Champagne has described as a “conflict of interest filter,” saying it has not been publicly disclosed.

The letter outlines more than a dozen instances where Champagne allegedly participated in debate or votes related to the project, despite rules requiring ministers to recuse themselves from matters that could benefit friends or family.

Barrett says an investigation is needed to determine whether the minister violated federal ethics laws and to maintain public confidence in government decision-making.