Temporary ban on alcohol use at Notre Dame Provincial Park

Environment and Conservation Minister Tom Osborne today announced a pilot project that will see alcohol banned at Notre Dame Provincial Park during the Victoria Day weekend and on all weekends until the end of June 2004.

The minister said the temporary ban on the possession and consumption of alcohol at Notre Dame Provincial Park is the result of a recurring excessive drinking problem at the park, especially by young people.

"Notre Dame Provincial Park has experienced a problem with excessive drinking for the past four or five years, especially during the Victoria Day weekend and weekends in June when graduation students hold parties at the park," said Minister Osborne. "Some of these parties have resulted in rowdyism, vandalism and theft of park equipment."

The minister noted that the recommendation for an alcohol ban was made by the park manager and park staff who have expressed concerns about the drinking problem.

"Despite many attempts by park officials to deal with the issue, the problem has persisted in recent years, creating an unpleasant experience for family park users," said Minister Osborne. "Officials have tried to limit the number of people per campsite and designated certain areas of the park as non-family sections to limit any unruly behavior, but these actions still have not solved the problem."

Minister Osborne said this pilot project is being undertaken to help ensure that all visitors at the park have a quality experience in a safe and comfortable setting.

"Government is committed to ensuring an enjoyable camping experience for all users of Notre Dame Provincial Park," said the minister. "Our provincial parks offer a range of outdoor recreational opportunities and we encourage residents and visitors to discover, explore and celebrate our beautiful natural heritage."

Minister Osborne noted that Terra Nova National Park instituted a similar alcohol ban at its Newman Sound campground in the early 1990s, which has proven to be very successful in curtailing problems related to alcohol abuse that existed there.

The minister said an opinion survey of visitors to Notre Dame Provincial Park will be carried out to assist government in determining the effectiveness of the pilot project and whether it will need to be continued for the 2005 camping season.

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-2575

2004 05 18 2:50 p.m.