October 26, 2009

Poll shows majority of Quebecers want construction scandal inquiry

But politicians still resist calls for a probe

MONTREAL

A pollster says there is a strong consensus among Quebecers for a public inquiry into links between politicians, the Mafia, and the construction industry.

Leger Marketing says 76 per cent of respondents to an online poll indicated support for an inquiry, while only 17 per cent did not. The web-based survey comes with federal, provincial, and municipal politicians resisting calls for a probe. Quebec has been rocked by reports that Mob-linked construction companies have repeatedly colluded to drive up the price of projects.

Mafia experts say the practice exists elsewhere in Canada, and is particularly worrisome now that Ottawa and the provinces are embarking on the most expensive infrastructure program in Canadian history.

The Quebec government says it’s too early to talk about an inquiry and that police should be allowed to do their work. The province was expected to announce it will create a new police squad specializing in the construction industry.

-Canadian Press

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