Fairness for Clear Lake, a community advocacy group, has officially decided to withdraw its judicial review against Parks Canada. This decision comes after a significant delay in court proceedings that postponed the hearing on the controversial boat ban until May 21, 2025.
Background on the Judicial Review Against Parks Canada
Spokesperson Trevor Boquist indicated that the group realized the timing of their case would likely not allow it to be heard by a judge before a boating decision for 2026 was made. The case was originally scheduled for January 28 but was moved to May due to court delays.
Impact of Delay on Judicial Review
- The judicial review was meant to challenge a 2025 ban on motorized vessels.
- The planned hearing now conflicts with Parks Canada’s timeline for making a decision regarding boating in 2026.
Parks Canada announced in December 2023 that a decision on boating for 2026 would be made by the end of this month, but they did not respond to requests for comment before the publication deadline.
Changes in Boating Regulations
In recent years, Parks Canada implemented stringent policies due to the discovery of invasive zebra mussels. These restrictions are summarized as follows:
| Year | Policy |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Introduced “one boat, one lake” policy. |
| 2024 | Banned all boats, except Martese tour boat. |
| 2025 | Ban on the Martese tour boat initiated. |
Leadership Changes
After noting the leadership changes at Parks Canada, Boquist expressed optimism regarding the new park superintendent, Tom Sheldon. The group recognized the positive shift in management and opted to maintain a cooperative relationship with him.
Advocacy Efforts Moving Forward
Despite the withdrawal of the judicial review, Fairness for Clear Lake remains committed to advocating for their “one boat, one lake” policy. They are actively engaging with government officials, including:
- Julie Dabrusin, the federal minister responsible for Parks Canada.
- Members of the Manitoba legislature.
- Premier Wab Kinew, who previously supported allowing boats on the lake.
The group aims to apply pressure ahead of the expected announcement regarding boating regulations for 2026. Although they did not achieve a final hearing, the process raised important issues concerning accountability and transparency within Parks Canada.
Boquist is hopeful that the group’s actions thus far have led to improvements in park management and policy. They remain focused on their goals while awaiting the upcoming decision from Parks Canada.
