The letter to the editor is outlined below. Read the letter to the editor on the Toronto Star's website.
Re: Privatization is looking like the Better Way, Feb. 14
Privatization is looking like the Better Way, Feb. 14
TTCriders' Herman Rosenfeld's speaks out against privatization in the Toronto Star
TTCriders' Herman Rosenfeld's speaks out against privatization in the Toronto Star
I read with interest frustrated transit-user Christopher Hume’s musings about privatizing the TTC. Tempting as this might seem, privatization is not the answer.
Yes, it certainly would be nice to have a transit system that is free of subway delays and long wait times for streetcars that often short turn. Yes it would be nice to have an SRT in Scarborough that actually works in Canadian winters. And yes, it would be nice to have a transit system that’s free of rude and indifferent employees. Indeed the litany of woes suffered by TTC customers is endless.
But despite all its problems, the TTC is a valuable public service and should remain in public hands. That’s why it’s called public transit, it doesn’t exist to make a profit.
The fact that Toronto’s transit system is massively underfunded by different levels of government is a disgrace given its vital role in urban life. The better way actually needs to be the better way. But a profit driven transit system is not the answer.