Harper Government Announces New Features for the 2015 Boating Season at Parks Canada's Canals in Quebec

MONTREAL, May 4, 2015 /CNW/ - On the occasion of the opening of the 2015 boating season at Parks Canada's historic canals in Quebec, the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Member of Parliament for Roberval – Lac-Saint-Jean, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced several new features that will enhance locking services and the visitor's experience.

Through these measures, such as improved hours of operation and a 2-for-1 promotion on lockage, a greater number of boaters will be able to enjoy Quebec's waterways and the Government of Canada is continuing its efforts to contribute to increasing tourism and economic benefits for local communities.

As the opening of the 2015 boating season approaches, Parks Canada's waterways team looks forward to welcoming boaters to the historic canals to help them experience unforgettable moments. Take the Lachine Canal to enjoy Montreal's major events and watch the spectacular fireworks show from the water. The Chambly Canal will feature a special program all summer to celebrate the 350^th anniversary of the Carignan-Salières Regiment, including a new event on Fryer Island. Check Parks Canada's Web site for the full program!

Through initiatives such as these, Parks Canada supports Canada's National Conservation Plan (NCP) by taking concrete action to provide Canadians with opportunities to connect with nature. The ongoing work of Parks Canada, along with special events and exciting new activities and programs across the country are enhancing visitor experience and facilitating personal connections with Parks Canada places.

Quick facts

• Parks Canada is adding between 24 and 126 hours to the locks' operating hours, depending on the canal, in Quebec's five historic canals during the 2015 boating season. This improvement to lockage services will enable more boaters to reach their destination in one day.
• The 2015 season will run from May 15 to October 12 and all the information on hours of operation is available at the following address: www.parkscanada.gc.ca/canals.
• From May 15 to June 30, 2015, boaters will receive a second pass through Parks Canada's heritage canals free with the purchase of a single lockage permit at one of the lock stations. For all the details about this offer, go to: www.pc.gc.ca/eng/progs/lhn-nhs/canaux-canals/can-promo.aspx

Quotes

"Our Government has made record investments in canals and we continue working with our partners and communities to allow canals to be premier tourism destinations, generate revenue, foster recreation and economic development, and ultimately build strong communities and support Canadian families."

The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Member of Parliament for Roberval—Lac-Saint-Jean

"Improving the lockage services will have a positive impact on marine tourism and the Quebec Marine Association is pleased with this initiative by Parks Canada. In fact, adjusting the hours of operation will enable new and returning users to navigate along the exceptional heritage waterways to an even greater extent."

Yves Paquette
General Manager, Association maritime du Québec

Associated links

Quebec Waterways: www.parkscanada.gc.ca/canals

2-for-1 promotion on lockage, from May 15 until June 30: www.pc.gc.ca/eng/progs/lhn-nhs/canaux-canals/can-promo.aspx 

SOURCE Agence Parcs Canada - Unité des voies navigables

Image with caption: "Boaters and lockmaster at the Lachine Canal National Historic Site (CNW Group/Agence Parcs Canada - Unité des voies navigables)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150504_C5305_PHOTO_EN_16168.jpg

Jonathan Lefebvre, Office of the Minister of the Environment, 819-997-1441; Media relations, Parks Canada, 1-855-862-1812, [email protected]