Extend Pacific Rim Park, Protect Juan de Fuca Marine Trail Say Garrison and Savoie

VICTORIA – South Island NDP candidates Denise Savoie (Victoria) and Randall Garrison (Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca) are calling for federal government leadership to protect the threatened Juan de Fuca Marine Trail from planned development.

“This nature trail is a green jewel for the Capital Region, and federal leadership is needed now to make sure it is protected,” said Savoie. “Preserving the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail is crucial to sustain vital natural ecosystems and to allow residents and visitors alike to enjoy for generations to come.”

“The Harper government should act immediately to extend the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to preserve the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail,” said Savoie. “We cannot allow this precious park land to be lost to urban sprawl.”

Savoie co-sponsored a bill to extend the Pacific Rim National park in the house in 2010. A pending Capital Regional District rezoning vote could allow a developer to build a tourism resort with 257 cabins and a lodge, next to the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. The development zone is also adjacent to rural resource lands, which the propsed lands are part of, are adjacent to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, administered by Parks Canada.

“With Parks Canada approaching its centennial next month, it’s imperative that the federal government mark this historic milestone by protecting this parcel of land.” said Garrison.

Media Contact: Danielle Dalzell 250-812-2131