Dear editor,
Over the past few months I have witnessed several events that suggest local businesses are failing to lead by example and up hold Parks Canada’s mandate. To refresh people the mandate states:
On behalf of the people of Canada, we protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage, and foster public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure the ecological and commemorative integrity of these places for present and future generations.
I feel that this mandate is not only meant for Parks Canada employees but everyone who resides in a national park or does business here. We all have to respect and protect the country’s natural and cultural heritage, but recent incidents make me feel as if Parks Canada’s employees are the only ones following it.
On May 26 I was driving from Banff to Jasper and after a short distance from Tangle Falls there was a flashing board stating ‘caribou on the road’ and the speed limit dropped to 70 km/h. I know no one drives at 70 km/h, but I was surprised to see a commercial bus overtake me. I expect more from local businesses and their employees to respect Parks Canada’s posted speed limits.
I observed another incident last winter near Bow Lake view point. A tourist bus was parked in the parking lot and there was a light snowfall on the road. Speed in that area is 90 km/h. There were tourists on the yellow line in the middle of road taking selfies. The vehicles were travelling at 90 km/h and had to slow down for the safety of those people. I feel like it should be the responsibility of the bus guide to ensure that they do not walk on the road for everyone’s safety.
If we are to enjoy the park and keep it for future generations business owners need to educate their employees and take ownership of Parks’ mandate.
Sincerely,
Karamjeet Singh Kang
