With the passing of that giant, all-encompassing omnibus federal budget bill (498 pages long!), spending cuts are underway all over the place. Via Rail has just announced layoffs and service cuts. Another agency that is coming under the knife is Parks Canada, and one effect of those cuts will be reduced service along the Trent-Severn Waterway, the 386-km aquatic thoroughfare that wends its way through much of Ontario cottage country. The government hasn’t yet decided how many jobs will be affected or what other ways the canal system will change, but while this year’s season will not change, expect a shorter season next year. If you are concerned and would like to make your voice heard, there is an online petition and you can send messages to the Prime Minister and your MP.
Meanwhile, it’s going to be a scorcher of a long weekend and a great time to be out on the water and having fun. And while we all sometimes get angry at the politicians in Ottawa, it’s good to celebrate what we have, too. Happy Canada Day, everyone!
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