Courtesy Murray Beach Action (Facebook)
Many residents from communities surrounding Murray Beach Provincial Park are concerned about the province’s decision to turn the park over to a private operator next season.
A group called Murray Beach Action has created a petition protesting the move and will be holding a rally near the park this weekend.
Spokesperson Stephen Robb says residents are worried about water quality issues at the beach and about possible changes under privatization.
Robb says residents are fearful more campsites will be added and they appreciate the park the way it is now with a nature feel and large open spaces.
The group has obtained the park’s financials and Robb says it does make money unlike some other provincial parks.
A rally and community barbeque are being held this Saturday (July 13) from 1 until 3-pm across the road from Murray Beach Provincial Park.
A number of dignitaries are expected to attend including area MLA Megan Mitton.
Meantime, the provincial government is not calling this privatization but rather contracting out the operation of the park through a concession agreement.
Department of Tourism spokesperson Stephanie Bilodeau says an appropriate operator will be identified through a request for proposals process this fall.
Bilodeau says a new operator will have to comply with the Parks Act and Murray Beach will continue to have provincial park status.
The operator would also need approval from the tourism minister to expand the number of campsites in the park.
She adds efforts will be made to help any impacted employees find jobs with the new operator or at other provincial parks.
More information on Saturday’s rally can be found HERE
