MNR Minister Acknowledges the Economic and Tourism Benefits of Cottages Posted on 2007-08-22 20:53:19 "Cottage development (supports) tourism and recreation growth that could lead to a long-term boost for the local economy" Earlier this year, MNR Minister David Ramsay announced his government's commitment to cottage development as a way to 'stimulate economic opportunities' and 'support tourism and recreational growth that would contribute to the local economy'. Rondeau Provincial Park has long been acknowledged as Chatham-Kent's primary tourist attractions, due largely to the cottagers within the park. Even the MNR acknowledge in internal communications that: "Rondeau is an intensively used park where cottaging has long been accepted as part of the park enjoyment and culture. Cottages at Rondeau do not unduly interfere with use and enjoyment of the park by the general public" According to Ontario Parks, Rondeau has the greatest biodiversity of any park in Ontario. A recent Environmental Assessment for the Ministry of the Environment confirms that the cottages in Rondeau Park are sustainable and compatible with the natural environment. This is consistent with the presence of cottages in Rondeau for over 100 years. The Chatham-Kent Heritage Board has recognized the heritage value of the Rondeau Cottage Community. and, again from the MNR’s internal files.... "Local businesses and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent are very dependent on the existence of Rondeau's cottagers" In light of this, the Rondeau Cottagers Association urges the Minister to now move to extend cottage leases in Rondeau as provided in the new Provincial Parks Act and to discontinue the appraisal of cottages for purchase and ultimate destruction at Ontario taxpayers' expense. back to main