mesures-actions9a

(9-1) We recommend that the Minister work with the provinces and territories to protect the ecological integrity of the national, provincial and territorial network of protected areas through formal agreement. In developing the agreement, include First Nations governments, municipalities, non-government organizations and industry as partners in the discussions.

We recommend that the Minister initiate a federal inter-departmental memorandum of understanding to support the maintenance of ecological integrity of national parks by ensuring consistent policies and plans with respect to lands under federal jurisdiction in greater ecosystems that include national parks.

Federal, provincial and territorial parks agencies manage their own parks networks under their own legislation. In most cases, the protection of ecological integrity is not a specific mandate of these agencies. Regular communications with provincial and territorial parks agencies occur through the Federal-Provincial Parks Council and Parks Ministers' meetings.

Collaboration among federal departments has traditionally been undertaken on a case-by-case basis and on issues of common interest (e.g. species at risk). Departments have a range of objectives which need to be harmonized through sharing of information and dialogue.

UNDER WAY. Parks Canada will continue to seek appropriate bilateral agreements with other governments.

Support of other federal departments is important to maintaining ecological integrity in national parks. Parks Canada is exploring appropriate mechanisms with key federal departments and agencies, particularly Environment Canada.