Green Party Statement on National Parks Day

(OTTAWA) - Bruce Hyer, Deputy Leader of the Green Party and MP (Thunder Bay- Superior North), released the following statement celebrating National Parks Day:

"Canada's national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas are a source of pride for Canadians and an integral part of our identity. National parks have existed in Canada for well over a century. They are protected for public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment, while being maintained in an unimpaired state for future generations. These treasured places enable us to experience our rich history and national heritage in a special way.

“This year on National Parks Day we can all celebrate progress on the creation of a National Marine Conservation Area on Lake Superior.  After eight years of postponement on a promise made by Prime Minister Harper in Nipigon in 2007, I was pleased to see all Parliamentarians, in both the House and the Senate, unanimously support my non-partisan, cross-party motion to pass Bill C-61. Without my motion, Bill C-61 would have died in the House of Commons.  The passage of this Bill is an important milestone for the people and ecosystems of Northern Ontario, and indeed all of Canada and beyond. This is now the largest freshwater marine protected area in the world.

"Parks Canada manages a network of 44 national parks, 168 national historic sites and four national marine conservation areas. Visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca<http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/> to find one near you."

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:

Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca