Protecting essential greenspace, NDP MP Masse bill to create Ojibway National Park passes in the House of Commons

OTTAWA – On Wednesday, NDP MP Brian Masse’s (Windsor West) private members’ bill C-248 to establish Ojibway National Urban Park (ONUP) passed third reading vote with all party support - clearing the final hurdle in the House of Commons. The bill now needs to pass in the Senate before becoming law. The national park would protect vital greenspace in the Windsor area, including the last remaining undeveloped natural shoreline in Windsor-Detroit, help mitigate the effects of climate change and provide a public space for all Canadians to enjoy.

“The bill to establish ONUP is the culmination of years, if not decades, of work by many residents of this region fighting to protect one of the most unique ecosystems in the country,” said Masse.

The proposed ONUP would include Ojibway Park, Spring Garden Natural Area, Black Oak Heritage Park, Tallgrass Prairie Park, Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve, and Ojibway Shores. It is home to hundreds of endangered species that rely on migration through surrounding local parks for survival, making it crucial to protect the land.

“This park area of approximately 900 acres, including the Detroit River, could become one of North America`s treasures,” said Masse. “It serves not only as a home and larger ecosystem to these species but also provides mitigation of flooding due to climate change and natural heritage areas that our community can enjoy, appreciate, and use for healthy living space and ecotourism.

This is an essential step in making this park a reality, I want to thank my colleagues for their support. All those years of work by so many people across this city and country brought this about. Now on to the Senate to finish the job.”