Quebec announces $130-million boost to public transit

The provincial government is pumping an additional $130 million a year into improving bus, metro and commuter train service.

Premier Jean Charest unveiled a new plan Friday to encourage public transit, as part of Quebec's strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Charest says the province wants more riders on city buses and the metro system.

"Because one of the things that we believe needs to be done is to make your life easier, and to adapt our transit systems to you. It's about energy efficiencies, it's about a higher quality of life, it's about saving money. I mean, there are so many good things around an issue like that one," Charest said.

Road vehicles produce nearly 40 per cent of Quebec's greenhouse gas emissions.

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Charest is expecting oil companies to help pay to cut those emissions through a carbon tax expected to generate $200 million per year.

The "green fund" would help finance improvements to public transportation.

Quebec currently has the lowest levels of greenhouse gas emissions in the country.