Posted on: November 9, 2016 | General News
Dear Whiteshell Cottagers and Whiteshell Cottagers Association Representatives,
I am pleased to introduce myself as Manitoba’s new Minister of Sustainable Development. My sincere thanks for providing me the opportunity to communicate directly with cottagers in this edition of The Whiteshell Echo.
I look forward to continuing an open dialogue on matters concerning the Whiteshell Provincial Park, one of our province’s most precious jewels. This past spring and summer has been very challenging for many cottagers who were unfortunately forced to endure the threat of forest fires as well as high water levels and flooding. I would like to thank the cottagers for their optimism and resilience during these difficult periods and extend a special thank you to all the volunteers, local businesses and park staff for their tireless commitment to protecting our Whiteshell Provincial Park.
We must all do our part to preserve and protect the Whiteshell Provincial Park and ensure future generations have the opportunity to enjoy its pristine lakes, abundant wildlife and awe inspiring landscapes.
As promised, our government immediately instituted a 2-year moratorium on lease and service fee increases for cottages in provincial parks. We are committed to initiating a process of engaging cottagers and stakeholders to achieve a provincially equitable system of park district service fees and annual Crown land rent in the Whiteshell and other provincial parks across Manitoba.
Again, thank you for this opportunity. I am excited about future collaboration between the department and association representatives, members and cottagers in the Whiteshell.
Sincerely,
Cathy Cox
