www.ocoa.ca
MEDIA RELEASE
August 14, 2008
Ontario Conservation Officers Association Commends McGuinty Government for Investing in Resource Protection
Parry Sound - The Ontario Conservation Officers Association (OCOA) is pleased with today's announcement of enhanced funding for Ontario's Natural Resources Enforcement program. The announcement was made at the OCOA annual convention by Hon. Donna Cansfield, Minister of Natural Resources.
Last year, the McGuinty Government provided an additional $1.6 million in one time funding toward the Ministry of Natural Resources Enforcement Program. "This infusion of extra money allowed Conservation Officers (COs) to meet their obligations in the field last year," said OCOA President, Dan VanExan. "Today's announcement of $2.5 million, will provide for those continuing commitments. The emphasis on protecting our natural resources and environment is greatly appreciated."
Of the $2.5 million, $2 million will be a permanent addition to the annual operating budget of the Enforcement Branch, and will be used in part to hire 5 new Conservation Officers. The remaining $500,000 is a one time infusion of money, and will be used to offset higher operating costs, particularly for fuel for aircraft enforcement in the north and large vessels on the Great Lakes.
Conservation Officers, as "Stewards of the Environment", enforce a large variety of natural resources and public safety legislation. They perform a valuable role in the urban environment of Ontario as well as in rural and northern locations. This continued commitment to COs will provide the necessary tools for these officers to protect Ontario's valuable heritage; our natural resources and environment.
The OCOA is committed to working with the Ontario Government to ensure that Ontario's natural resources are well protected.
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For more information contact:
Dan VanExan
President
Ontario Conservation Officers Association
(613) 478-6132
