| Government throne speech on the wrong trail for Ontarians |
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| Thursday, 13 October 2005 | |
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Provincial trails announcement supports ATVs over healthy living
(Toronto) In yesterday’s speech from the throne, the government announced that their new Ontario trails strategy is a part of the Province’s efforts to “improve the health of our people”. Quoting the Honourable James K. Bartleman, “And because a healthy lifestyle includes activity in the great outdoors, it will introduce legislation that would ensure our precious provincial parks are protected forever, while pursuing our strategy to map and sign 64,000 kilometres of Ontario trails.”
“The Province simply cannot say they’re promoting health for Ontarians while encouraging people to, rather than walk or hike, drive highly polluting vehicles through Ontario’s parks”, said Josh Matlow, Earthroots’ Campaigns Director, “Ontarians want parks where they can enjoy the quiet and peaceful experience of being in our natural spaces.”
Earthroots says that the expansion of the noisy and polluting vehicles on Ontario’s trails, without clear prohibitions is not acceptable; and is in conflict with the direction of the government as it embraces a new a biodiversity strategy, new legislation for protected areas and asking Ontarians to live healthier lifestyles.
Earthroots believes a prohibition of new or expanded ATV use in protected and environmentally sensitive areas is necessary to make the trails strategy consistent with a biodiversity strategy and health promotion intent; and also in line with the strong public opinion that protected areas should protect natural values. Currently, less than ten percent of Ontario’s crown land is restricted from the use of off-road vehicles.
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For more information, please contact:
Josh Matlow, Earthroots’ Campaigns Director (416)599-0152 x14 or (416) 809-5674 (cell.)        |
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