Partisan nominations at the STM - Brenda Paris is removed

MONTREAL , Dec. 1 /CNW Telbec/ - "The clever trick used by Mayor Tremblay to nominate Michel LabreCque, a defeated candidate for Union Montréal in the last municipal elections, as both president of Montreal's transit corporation and as the representative of transit users, denies Montrealers a fair representation", declared Louise Harel, Leader of Official Opposition.

The so-called openness announced by the mayor on the day following his election for a third term mandate, his so-called desire to work differently from now and his affirmation that "we will no longer represent political parties, but all Montrealers", was certainly short lived.

The Mayor decided to remove Brenda Paris from her position as representative of transit users, despite the fact that in 2005, he was recognising "her great experience". Meanwhile the Mayor made sure to appoint on STM's administration council only those city councillors elected with Union Montréal, the mayor's party.

"Michel Labrecque's nomination will not only leave transit users without an independent and fair representation but as both president and representative, Mr Labrecque will most likely receive a financial contribution for both positions", mentioned Louise Harel.

For further information: Marie-Hélène d'Entremont, Press Attaché, Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition, City of Montréal, [phone], Cell.: [phone]