Senator Rosa Galvez and Member of Parliament for Pontiac-Kitigan Zibi, Sophie Chatel, Introduce Bill S-229 – An Act to amend the National Capital Act (Gatineau Park)

This morning, Senator Rosa Galvez and Member of Parliament for Pontiac-Kitigan Zibi, Sophie Chatel, presented the broad outline of a bill to protect Gatineau Park, which was tabled in the Senate on Tuesday morning for first reading.

Bill S-229, An Act to amend the National Capital Act (Gatineau Park):

• Establishes Gatineau Park and its boundaries in federal legislation and dedicates it to future generations.
• Ensures that the management of the park is primarily focused on ecological integrity.
• Stipulates that the boundaries of Gatineau Park may only be reduced through legislation.
• Strengthens ties and collaboration between the NCC and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation of the region, as well as with neighbouring municipalities.
• Authorizes the creation of regulations concerning activities allowed in the park and to charge fees without exceeding the actual cost of the services.

We would like to thank and congratulate Senator Galvez and MP Chatel for their commitment to the conservation of our natural environments and, in particular, to the protection of Gatineau Park.

CPAWS-OV is proud to be associated with them in this project!

Why Protecting Gatineau Park Matters

Gatineau Park is more than just a scenic retreat—it is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 5,000 species, including 156 federally and provincially recognized species at risk. Its diverse ecosystems, from forests to wetlands, provide critical habitat for wildlife and contribute to the region’s ecological health.

Beyond its environmental significance, Gatineau Park holds deep cultural importance. Indigenous communities, including the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation, have lived in and around the park for thousands of years. The land carries historical and spiritual meaning, and protecting it ensures that these connections remain intact.

As the second most visited park in Canada after Banff, Gatineau Park is a cherished space for recreation and reflection. Whether hiking its trails, admiring its landscapes, or exploring its heritage sites, visitors experience a unique blend of nature and history.

For CPAWS-OV, safeguarding Gatineau Park is a mission that dates back to 1969, when concerned citizens united to combat development in the area. More than five decades later, we continue to fight for its protection, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its beauty and ecological richness.