Should Canadian airports be privatized?

This episode of Front Burner examines the proposal to privatize Canada's airports, a recurring policy debate that has resurfaced under Prime Minister Mark Carney's government. Host Jamie Poisson speaks with veteran journalist and activist Linda McQuaig, who argues that privatization of public infrastructure like airports, highways, and postal services consistently leads to higher costs for consumers, reduced accountability, and long-term loss of public control. Drawing on international examples such as Heathrow and Australia’s airports, McQuaig highlights how privatization often results in monopolistic pricing and inefficiencies, despite claims of improved efficiency. She uses the 407 Expressway in Ontario and the Walkerton water tragedy to illustrate how privatization undermines public service goals and safety. The discussion also explores the potential of reinvesting in public services—like reviving postal banking—to serve rural and low-income communities. McQuaig critiques Carney’s nation-building strategy for prioritizing fossil fuel investments over renewable energy and public infrastructure, advocating instead for bold, publicly led projects that benefit all Canadians. The episode concludes with a broader warning: once public assets are sold, reclaiming them is costly and politically difficult.