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January 17th, 2013

Conservative cuts will limit access to Canadian parks

Parks Canada recouping budget losses on the backs of Canadian families

As a consequence of the Conservative government’s $54.9 million cut to Parks Canada, Canadians will face increased fees to access our national parks and waterways.

“Once again, Canadian families are bearing the brunt of the Conservative government’s half-baked ideas,” said NDP Environment critic Megan Leslie (Halifax). “With their budget cuts, the Conservatives pretend to save money with one hand then sneak it out of Canadians’ back pockets with the other.”

Under the Parks Canada proposal, which is open for public consultation until February 18, the funds would be recouped by imposing higher entry, camping, fishing and boating fees.

“Canada’s national parks are a part of our national identity and it is mean-spirited and irresponsible for the Conservatives to increase fees that will prevent many Canadians from enjoying our country’s natural splendour, from Gwaii Hanaas to Banff to the Rideau Canal,” said NDP MP Nathan Cullen (Skeena–Bulkley Valley).