Preservation of Alberta’s treasure of natural areas is the prime function of our parks. While parks are only four per cent of our land mass, they are the precious legacy each generation must guard for future Albertans.
We expect our provincial government to act to protect this legacy on our behalf and for our grandchildren.
Current legislation for ecological protection is in danger of being replaced by Bill 29 during the current sitting of the legislature. This new bill would remove existing protection by leaving rulings on altered use of parks to the discretion of the minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation.
I join in the request of many Albertans that Bill 29 be withdrawn and that any new bill guarantee: the preservation of the natural environment (i.e. protection from harm or degradation) and protection of the ecological integrity within parks be clearly outlined within the act as the primary purpose of parks amongst the other uses of outdoor recreation, tourism, education and natural and cultural heritage appreciation. Such protections for the natural environment and wilderness in the current acts, including for Wilderness Areas, Ecological Reserves and Wildland Parks, be retained.
And that the minister not be given broad discretion in the act to approve tourism developments within any park and location the minister chooses.
Janet Walter
Red Deer