Former Quebec premier heads up Manitoba task force on rail relocation

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest waves to the crowd as the Quebec Liberal Party holds a tribute in his honour Saturday, March 16, 2013 at the leadership convention in Montreal. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz.

WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government has tabbed former Quebec premier Jean Charest to examine how to move rail lines out of Winnipeg.

Premier Greg Selinger says Charest will head up a task force with a $400,000 budget.

The NDP government recently promised — just a few months before the provincial election in April — to look at relocating rail lines outside the city.

Selinger says the province wants to ease traffic congestion and improve safety.

He says Charest is well-suited to the challenge given his political experience.

Charest says he’s excited to be part of a project with what he calls a “bold new vision” for the Manitoba capital.

The Canadian Press