Mr. Speaker, the Chambly Canal is one of the jewels of the historical heritage of the riding of Saint-Jean and the entire Richelieu valley. It is essential to the survival of tourism and especially to the survival of restaurants and businesses in the boating sector, because it makes our beautiful Richelieu River navigable despite its rapids.
I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the dedication of someone we are very proud of: Lise Payette, general manager of Croisières d'Iberville. Ms. Payette has been working hard for years to promote our river to tourists from all over the world. However, the canal season could be shortened because of cuts to Parks Canada lock operator positions. A significant portion of boating revenue is generated by American tourists.
Does the minister want Canadian companies to lose business because Parks Canada has deprived American tourists of the opportunity to spend their money in Canada?
Therefore, I am asking the Minister of the Environment not to reduce the navigation schedule at the Chambly Canal for the 2013 season.