A friend brought this issue…

A friend brought this issue to my attention and the first question I have to ask is WHY is this happening? Is this another government cave in to a special interest group (the environmentalists), and if so why is Rondeau being targeted when other Provincial parks are not? I understand the government's desire to protect it's natural assets. Most cottagers have great respect for the environment and do their best to respect the nature around them. I have visited the area, but am not a cottager, and it appears that there is a good balance between man and nature, so the question remains why are you trying to push these few cottagers out of the park? .It is my understanding that cottagers are being allowed to stay in other Provincial parks and even buy their lots, so this new lease agreement is inconsistent with the the way other tax paying citizens are treated. It makes no sense. Pushing cottagers out of the park would also have a negative impact on the local economy, causing businesses to close and people lose jobs. Ontario is in desperate need of every job it has and needs to grow more jobs. In fact, more should be done to develop this area to create jobs and improve economic conditions.

Finally, the terms of the new lease agreement are OUTRAGEOUS. Not only do you want them out of the park, you want them to pay for the demolition of the cottage and restore the property to its natural condition. That adds insult to injury.

I believe that this lease agreement should be scrapped and that the MNR should work more closely with the cottagers to come to an agreement that will satisfy both parties. At least come up with a consistent policy that applies to all cottagers equally in the province of Ontario. Cottaging is a way of life for many taxpayers in the province that enhances the experience of living in Ontario. It should be allowed to continue in Provincial parks.

[Original Comment ID: 129043]