Prince Albert, SK – The Public Service Alliance of Canada condemns the federal government for their continued attacks on Canada’s most valuable natural ecosystems and natural areas, including the most recent decision to stop grooming cross country ski trails in Prince Albert National Park.
“Our Parks are a cherished gift in this country. They’re a part of who we are as Canadians, and especially as Prairies people,” says Marianne Hladun, Regional Executive Vice-President for the PSAC Prairie Region. “This decision will not only affect the generations of families who visit the Park on a regular basis, but it will also have an impact on the local economy and those that rely on Parks activity to generate business."
In April, Parks Canada issued notices to 1,689 PSAC members working at national historic sites, national parks and waterways across the country. Seven positions were eliminated from Prince Albert National Park. Many seasonal workers were told their work seasons and hours of work will be shortened to match peak visitation periods and minimize off-season requirements.
“There is no such thing as ‘off season’ with Parks because the quieter times are when the locals from Prince Albert and surrounding communities get to really enjoy the beauty and serenity of their Park,” says Phil Bourque, Local President for the Union of National Employees Local 40107 at Prince Albert National Park.
The Public Service Alliance of Canada is one of Canada’s largest unions. It represents over 180,000 workers across Canada and nearly 2,000 in Northern Saskatchewan, including Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and surrounding areas.
- Sign the Change.org petition calling on the federal government to reverse the decision to stop maintaining the trails at Prince Albert National Park during the winter.
- Tim Hogan, Prince Albert Area Council Representative for the Prairie Region Council, is quoted in this CTV Saskatoon story (from 5:55 to 6:55).
- One local woman write a letter to the editor at the Saskatoon StarPhoenix about the physical and mental health benefits these trails provide.