Today in question period, Timiskaming-Cochrane MPP John Vanthof and Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha called on the Liberal government to restore the Ontario Park Ranger program at provincial parks.
“The program built awareness, job skills and an overall appreciation of the diversity of Ontario in yesterday’s and today’s leaders, but sadly not tomorrow’s, because the Liberal Government cut the program in last year’s budget,” explained Vanthof.
Since the creation of the Ranger program in 1944, more than 78,000 young Ontarians have participated. Participants travelled across the province to work with other youth in provincial parks throughout the summer.
Mantha participated in the program for two years as a youth.
“I learned, and accomplished real tasks that, to a great extent, have shaped and made me who I am today,” explained Mantha. “But now, the MNR budget is being cut, parks are closing down and young people are not getting the opportunity to explore and learn.”
Vanthof, the NDP Natural Resources Critic, will present a petition signed by over 6000 Ontarians calling for the restoration of the program.
“Will the government listen and commit to reinstating the full Ranger program, and give young people the opportunities they need?” asked Vanthof.
