QUESTION PERIOD — Canadian Heritage
Outdoor Recreation
June 4, 2026
Senator Moreau, a recent report by Protect Our Winters Canada created one of the first national assessments of the economic impact of outdoor recreation. It found that the sector contributes more than $101 billion annually to Canada’s economy, supports over 1 million full-time equivalent jobs and engages approximately 78% of Canadians. Despite its significant economic and social contributions, Canada lacks annualized data to track the sector’s performance over time.
Will the federal government direct Statistics Canada to collect annual data to regularly measure participation, employment, tourism and economic output associated with the outdoor recreation sector?
Thank you for the question.
I have no indication whatsoever if the government is willing to do that, but I will certainly raise the question with the appropriate minister and get back to you with an answer.
I appreciate that. Thank you.
We know Canadians rely on the outdoors for physical activity and well-being, but as climate change reduces snowpack, shortens winter seasons and increases wildfire risks, what is the federal government doing to help the winter recreation sector adapt and ensure continued outdoor access for all Canadians?
As I am a skier, I consider it a very good question. I will certainly raise the question with the minister, as I mentioned earlier, and I will get back to you with an answer if there are any initiatives. I’m not aware of any at this moment.
