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Entrance sign to Waterton, one of Parks Canada's sites (Lethbridge News Now)

Public invited to take part in virtual Parks Canada consultation

Oct 5, 2020 | 10:19 AM

GATINEAU, QC – Canadians are invited to share their views on the country’s Parks system.

Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, has announced the upcoming 2020 Minister’s Round Table on Parks Canada.

It will include consultation on national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas.

Parks Canada staff will engage with Indigenous groups, stakeholders and members of the public to help shape the future of these areas. The round table will be done virtually, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

From October 19 to 30, Canadians, including youth and newcomers, are encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on the following five main themes of consultation:

  • Urban Parks: Parks Canada as a leader in urban conservation, and providing access to nature and culture in communities;
  • Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility: Parks Canada as a partner and a leader in inclusion, diversity, accessibility and reconciliation in protected and heritage places;
  • Ecological Corridors: Connecting protected places to respond to climate change and biodiversity loss;
  • Indigenous Leadership in Conservation: Advancing Indigenous leadership in conservation, traditional use, Indigenous knowledge, and Indigenous protected and conserved areas;
  • Protecting our Cultural Heritage: Advancing legislative protection for federal built heritage

“The pandemic has reminded us all how important nature is to our personal well-being – and the health of our planet,” Wilkinson stated.

“That is why we are launching this consultation – so we can continue to listen to the views of Canadians as we adapt to the changing circumstances of the pandemic. Our goal is to continue to provide high quality service to our visitors as we protect these iconic places for generations to come. I encourage all Canadians to virtually participate in this consultation to share their perspectives with Parks Canada.”

Individuals can visit letstalkparkscanada.ca for more details and to get involved.

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