Mr. Speaker, what encompasses over 330,000 square kilometres; is in each and every province and territory; is very conscious of protecting our environment; showcases stunning vistas of coastlines, mountains and rolling fields; employs thousands of people; recognizes the incredible history of areas and is a huge contributor to our local economies? If colleagues guessed it is Parks Canada, they are correct.
There are 47 national parks and 171 national historic sites from coast to coast to coast. In my riding in the Long Range Mountains, over 1,800 square kilometres are home to Gros Morne National Park, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site. If it is history someone is looking for, my riding is also blessed to house Port au Choix and L'Anse aux Meadows national historic sites. These treasures of Parks Canada are huge contributors to the region's economy.
When it is safe to travel, members should explore a Parks Canada area. In 2019, over a quarter of a million people travelled to my riding to visit Parks Canada attractions. I cannot wait until I can boast that we have exceeded that number again in a few years.