“As usual, the federal government chose not to consult with the people who are affected most by their reckless cuts to public services,” said Marianne Hladun, regional executive vice-president for the PSAC Prairie Region, in a recent press release. “This town hall meeting will allow the community to voice concerns about how this will hurt their local economy and the environment.”
Hladun was expected to attend the town hall meeting with plans to give an overview of the issues. She warns that, under privatization, visitors will either see an increase in rates or decrease in standards of service, in order to meet profitability needs of a private company.
“Rest assured that the hot springs are not for sale,” said Alisson Ogle, public relations and communications representative for Parks Canada. “No individual or corporate entity can buy ownership of land in a national park.”
According to Ogle, Parks Canada manages national park lands on behalf of Canadians and as per park regulations the agency administers many leasehold or license of occupation agreements with commercial operators who deliver services and programs that help visitors appreciate, understand and enjoy the natural and cultural heritage of the parks.
“Private sector operations of the hot springs would be managed under a land use agreement, similar to arrangements in place for other private sector facilities and activities that help support visitors,” said Ogle.
Ogle explained the move was part of Parks Canada’s effort to help reduce the federal deficit by taking steps to reduce expenditures. Parks Canada believes these steps should improve internal efficiencies and reduces costs while allowing the agency to focus on its priorities of delivering its core mandate to protect and present Canada’s treasured protected places.
According to Ogle, since 1994 the three Canadian Rockies hot springs have been managed as a commercial operation under a separate Parks Canada business unit.
“Shifting their operation to the private sector will provide greater capacity and flexibility to respond to the demands of the tourism market and will maximize opportunities for enhancing the facilities, operations and marketing,” said Ogle. “Parks Canada is committed ensuring Canada’s special places are presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.”
According to Ogle, Parks Canada will ensure the hot springs are maintained for public use and enjoyment and will ensure that any re-development reflects their location in a national park and does not compromise ecological integrity or cultural resources.
“In addition, we are confident that any private sector operator will continue to offer a high quality experience at a price that is competitive and comparable to other visitor attractions,” said Ogle.
Ogle stated that a representative from Parks Canada will not be attending the meeting. More information on Parks Canada alternative delivery service for the hot springs can be found at:
Hladun is expecting a large turn out for the town hall meeting with residents of Jasper, Hinton and surrounding areas attending. For more information on the PSAC campaign visit: .
