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Eddie Joyce, Bay of Islands MHA and Tourism, Culture and
Recreation Critic, is calling on government to reverse the budget decision
to raise fees for the services provided in provincial parks throughout the
province. "As we open provincial parks for the
2004 Summer season, outdoors enthusiasts will get a surprise as they attempt
to enter parks operated by the provincial government," said Joyce. "The
increased park fees that are being charged by government are hurting the
tourism industry and encouraging people living within the province to stay
at home.
"I personally know of many people who in the past have
brought their campers to provincial parks for the entire season. This year,
they are unable to afford the fees and cannot enjoy the very parks that were
built for their use. There are not many Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who
think it is fair to have to pay $945.00 to park their trailer for the summer
months.
"Not only has the government increased the seasonal
and daily park fees, they have introduced new charges. It will now cost $5
to have a shower and $5 for a relative or friend to stop by the campsite for
an hour, both of which were previously free.
"These are cash grabs for government and should be
reversed immediately. Residents of the province should be encouraged to go
out and enjoy our wonderful province, not be taxed to death by a right wing
government." |