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Eddie Joyce, MHA for Bay of Islands District and
Opposition Critic for Tourism, Culture and Recreation, is calling on
government to reconsider it’s decision to raise fees after backlash
following the first long weekend of the season.
"People are speaking out against the exorbitant fees being charged for
provincial services this year," said Joyce. "Those who decided to visit
provincial parks over the May 24th weekend were shocked with the
rise in fees. It is almost cheaper to stay in a hotel than it is to avail of
our outdoors experience.
"I heard from one individual that had to pay $20 for
his motorhome, $20 for his car that his motorhome was towing and $13 for his
campsite, a total of $53 to enter the park. The government’s fee structure
is overkill and it will hurt the tourism industry in this province. The
Government House Leader, Ed Byrne, stood in the House of Assembly today to
answer my questions and refused to deny this is the case."
With the summer tourism season just getting started,
the Liberal MHA is concerned about what impact the new fees will have on
outside visitors and rural businesses.
"The Marine Atlantic ferry rates are increased, gas
prices are up, provincial roads are in deplorable condition and now
government is implementing 150 new fees and increases. These all add up to a
major deterrent to potential tourists.
"Businesses will be impacted by the new fees as well.
Many of these small businesses cater to the tourism industry and only
operate on a seasonal basis. Having to face new fees for inspection services
will cause store-owners to close their doors permanently.
"Given the backlash from campers and tourists last
weekend and the potential impact on small businesses, I call on the
government to immediately reverse the decision to increase fees and reduce
them to their original levels." |