On February 27, 2018, Doug Ford visited Bala and said (more transcript is here.):
My friends, this project is another example of a long list of Liberal pet projects that would cost this province dearly. Projects like this are hurting our province and costing taxpayers billions of dollars, all to benefit the political insiders, the political elites, that have been running this province for years…
This tells me there’s a serious problem here. This project stinks of political interest and insider deals…
As Premier, I would conduct a full investigation into this project, and make sure the local residents are armed with the facts. As Premier I will get answers, and I can assure you, I will get answers. I will drill down and find out who is part of the big scam…
And as sure as I’m standing here, I’m going to come back, and each and every one of you can hold me accountable. I will be back here in the same spot, and we’re going to stop this project.
Premier Ford, you made a promise, people voted for you because of it. People expect: “Promise made, promise kept”. We want to help you keep your promise.