Report continued from volume A.

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Private Members’ Public Business

Trail permits

Hon. Steve Clark: I move that, in the opinion of this House, the government of Ontario should work with the trail management clubs to establish a one-permit system for trails and that individual clubs be provided with an option to opt out.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Mr. Clark has moved private member’s notice of motion number 14. Pursuant to standing order 100, the member has 12 minutes for their presentation.

Hon. Steve Clark: It’s truly an honour to rise in support of my private member’s bill.

I want to start by recognizing some folks that are in the gallery whose support and hard work has been invaluable to me in bringing this motion forward. From the Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicle Clubs, we have Shawn Ellenberger, OFATV president; Teresa Hebb, OFATV vice-president; Norm Lewis, district 2 director; Kevin Fletcher, district 8 director; Denise McLean, OFATV’s membership and corporate affairs coordinator; Shane Garcia, OFATV’s regional director. I’m also pleased to welcome Noah Mondrow and Christian von Donat from Impact Public Affairs. Thank you so much. I just want to thank you all for being here.

I also want to thank you, Speaker, in your capacity as parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Transportation. I also want to extend my thanks to Minister Sarkaria and his staff for guidance and assistance on this file.

My work began on this file last fall, when OFATV invited me to do a ride-along with the members of the Johnstown and Thousand Islands ATV Clubs in my riding. We had a fantastic day on the trails, and it gave me an opportunity to explore areas in my riding in ways that I’d never seen before. That experience really opened my eyes on why ATV riding is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in Ontario. It’s so much fun.

I could see the passion and commitment that club members have for safety on the trails and the countless hours and hard work that they put into maintaining them. The respect that they have for private property owners and crown land is also so evident. I heard about the thousands of dollars—thousands of dollars—the clubs raise for local community groups and charity rides throughout the year.

They also are a tremendous economic driver for my riding of Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. They support many, many local businesses in communities all across their trail networks.

I also learned something else that day, and this is very important for our debate today: While Ontario is second in Canada with more than 300,000 insured ATVs, we’re the only province—the only one—without some form of connected one-permit system for our trails.

The economic impact in Ontario for ATVs is already tremendous, and there’s so much potential that exists to significantly increase economic development by growing regional tourism in every single corner of our province. Let’s face it: If you were planning to visit somewhere in the world on your ATV—listen—we are the best place. We are the best place to visit.

But what’s lacking is that one-permit system for ourselves. It’s holding us back. It’s holding economic development back. As I want to highlight in my remarks, increased economic opportunity is really just one reason. It’s important, but it’s just one reason.

I committed, that day that I went on the ride, to championing this issue, and that’s why—because of the ride—that I brought this motion forward today.

Folks who might be watching or folks in the chamber might not even understand what a one-permit system is and, importantly, why we do need it. Simply put, the system would allow Ontario ATV riders and many ATV enthusiasts who visit our province from all across Canada and the United States to purchase a single annual permit to access our trail network. It’s going to replace the current patchwork system, where riders have to buy multiple permits to legally access different clubs’ trails, even within the same region.

The patchwork system creates confusion, especially for visiting ATVers, about where to buy permits, how many are needed, where they can legally ride. By lacking that cohesive system, it leads to inconsistent signage, inconsistent maintenance, which, I think, being on the ride that day, is really essential for a safe and responsible ride experience. A one-permit system would fix this. Revenue generated could be invested to create a coordinated network of trails, again, with clear, consistent signage to ensure everyone knows where they’re going. It would also help fund trail maintenance and programs for things like rider education and safety.

With any initiative that would be proposed, there are really legitimate questions and a few concerns from some of the ATV community and from other trail users. That’s why the motion doesn’t prescribe every detail, and the motion does not dictate what the system has to look like. Instead, I’m calling on the Ministry of Transportation to work collaboratively with trail management clubs and associations. These people are the ones who know the trails best. Their knowledge is invaluable to design a system that’s fair, that’s flexible and that’s sustainable for all users.

Importantly, I’m calling for one thing to be included in the system: the provision for individual clubs to opt out if they wish. Here’s the reason why that’s important. The ability to opt out was an approach taken in 1967, when the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs was founded from 10 previously independent clubs. In the 58 years since, that once disjointed system of snowmobile trails has become a connected 30,000-kilometre network that drives $6 billion in economic activity every year. We’ve got the potential, members, to have the same thing happen for ATVers in the province, but clubs will have to come to the table. They’ll have to be a part of it, and they’ll have to be a part of it when they’re ready. Queen’s Park isn’t going to dictate to them. My goal here with this motion is co-operation and collaboration.

I know the ministry is committed to making this work, as is the OFATV, and many, many other clubs, many other trail users that I’ve spoken to are really enthusiastic about this motion moving forward.

Should my colleagues support it—and I hope that they will—it will be the impetus to get moving so that Ontario can catch up to other provinces and other states that are joining our wonderful province.

With OFATV’s leadership, we’ve already seen incredible support to be part of a one-permit trail system. Of course, in my riding, Johnstown and Thousand Islands are solidly behind it, in Leeds-Grenville. There are clubs in other regions: West Carleton to Frontenac, Northumberland, Nation Valley, Essex, Dufferin Grey, Renfrew, Elliot Lake, Cochrane, Timmins are all on board. They’re all on board, and they’re all ready to roll.

ATV riding generates hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity every year. As you heard from that list of clubs, much of the economic impact is happening in rural and northern Ontario, so these parts of the province where I think we can all agree tourism is vital for the success of small businesses and those hard-working men and women who operate them. So creating a one-permit trail system will make it far easier to market Ontario as the premier destination for ATVing, ensuring we can drive more economic activity into those communities.

Listen, folks—hey, listen. The promotional campaign writes itself: “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventure.” Do you like that?

Interjections.

Hon. Steve Clark: I thought you would.

In the time that I’ve got left, I just want to talk about the fact that we’ve highlighted a number of letters of support. One I want to read into the record is from Sergeant Dave Moffatt, who is the provincial off-road vehicle coordinator for the OPP’s highway safety division. I’m very thankful to receive the letter from Sergeant Moffatt, in which he writes, “The Ontario Provincial Police has long supported the creation of a unified, province-wide ATV trail system in Ontario, like the successful governance framework administered by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC).

“A single, regulated trail system would eliminate the current patchwork of bylaws, locally negotiated agreements, and inconsistent operating rules that can create confusion for riders and enforcement challenges for officers.

“By establishing uniform standards for signage, rider expectations, maintenance, and safe operation, it would significantly reduce conflict points and strengthen public safety outcomes. Centralized governance also supports better education and outreach, helping riders understand and follow the law while protecting shared recreational spaces.

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“The motion introduced by MPP Clark reflects what the ATV riding community has sought for many years: one clear provincial framework that simplifies compliance, supports responsible growth and enhances safety for all users. We respectfully urge the government to advance the regulatory implementation at the earliest opportunity so these benefits can be realized across Ontario.”

This is one of many letters of support I’ve received. I’m highlighting it as it states so clearly why we need to move ahead on this one-permit trail system. Enhancing rider safety and public safety, reducing conflict on the trails, centralizing governance to approve trail maintenance and rider education, and providing the clarity for better compliance—all of that in addition to all the economic benefits that I talked about earlier.

Speaker, the OFATV has done a tremendous job advocating to members from all sides of the House on this issue. Many of you have had the chance to do a ride-along, like I did, to hear first-hand why the one-permit trail system is so important. I hope I’ve done justice to all the work that OFATV has done.

I urge everyone to support the motion. I think we need to give a very clear message, Speaker, with all due respect to the Ministry of Transportation, to bring together the partners, to develop a system like every other province and stop Ontario from being so far behind. This is a great opportunity, members. Remember my slogan: “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventure.”

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Mr. Guy Bourgouin: I rise in favour of the motion, and I want to also welcome the OFATV here to Queen’s Park.

I come from Kapuskasing, born and raised in Dubreuilville, So ATV, snowmobile, UTV, we’re raised—I’m a grandfather. My granddaughter is two months old, and at four days, she was in a UTV, riding the trails with her mom and dad. I can tell you, it’s in our blood.

So I don’t have a problem supporting a one-permit system for trails, because I think we’re missing out. The economic driver when we think of snowmobiles, the same thing should be done for ATVs and UTVs and recreation. We have so many trails available. And in northern Ontario, it’s part of our culture; it’s part of who we are. We hunt. We fish. All this equipment that we have, all the toys—I have an ATV and I have a UTV and I have a snowmobile. In fact, I have two four-wheelers.

MPP Jamie West: We’re all going to Guy’s.

Mr. Guy Bourgouin: Well, I gave one to my kid, but anyways.

It is so like the minister said. Until you had a chance to try an ATV or UTV, I think you’re missing out, because it’s so much fun to do. It’s a family event—things that you can do with your family.

I think that this motion will help. And you can opt out, so clubs that don’t want to be part of, they don’t have to be a part of it.

But I think there is such a potential that we can have in Ontario. We’ve seen how snowmobiles changed northern Ontario with all the trails they have and bringing in tourists and the amount of snowmobiles we now see on our trails—it should be the same for ATVs.

So I’m glad to support this motion, and I can tell you, I can’t wait to get back on my ATV. I want to go back home, because that’s who we are. So, again, I hope everyone can support this motion.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

MPP George Darouze: I’d also like to welcome the OFATV club members here this afternoon to Queen’s Park.

It is my sincere honour to rise here today in support of my colleague MPP Clark and his motion to establish a streamlined approach to the way that ATV users can access the trails in our province.

Right now, ATV riders in Ontario can sometimes face a confusing layout of trail systems. Each region may be governed by a different club or federation, each with its own rules, fees and permits. For many riders, this means paying for multiple passes to access trails that, in reality, are part of a connected experience.

A one-trail pass would change that. A one-trail pass will make ATVing easier to understand, be easier to buy and valid on all sanctioned trails in the province that opt in to the model. This model has already proven successful in other jurisdictions. Take Quebec, for example. Their unified pass system has boosted trail use, increased compliance and delivered more revenue to maintain and expand trail infrastructure.

More importantly, a one-trail pass would support the small towns and rural businesses that rely on ATV tourism. ATV riders contribute so much to local economies when travelling through the thousands of kilometres of trails across this province, and ensuring that it is easy to travel between different jurisdictions will make it even easier for ATV riders to visit new towns without worrying about whether their permit covers that area or not.

MPP Clark’s motion will also help to strengthen trail stewardship. Clubs and volunteers across Ontario do incredible work maintaining these trails. A one-trail pass would allow for better resource-sharing and more predictable funding.

I am pleased to note that MPP Clark’s motion will also retain the ability for individual clubs to opt out of the program, although I believe that most clubs across the province will definitely support this initiative.

As a major snowmobile and ATV enthusiast myself, I am always happy to support initiatives that will support our off-road recreation sector. Let’s make it easier for people to enjoy Ontario’s trails responsibly. Let’s create a system that supports tourism, safety and sustainability.

I thank MPP Clark for bringing this forward and hope that the House will provide their support for this important initiative.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): I recognize the member from Oshawa.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: I am glad to be able to stand in this House as the official opposition shadow Minister of Transportation. I am also glad to see familiar faces. We just hung out on Zoom not that long ago. So welcome to Shawn Ellenberger, the president of the Ontario Federation of All-Terrain Vehicle Clubs, and VP Teresa Hebb. I see Denise and Noah from on screen. It wasn’t our first conversation, and this isn’t the first conversation that folks have had about improving our trail system.

Speaker, people love the outdoors in Ontario. We are so blessed to have such a fantastic and beautiful province. I am an enthusiastic camper. I’m very grateful for our provincial parks and our outdoor spaces, and here we are talking about another great way, and that is better utilization of our trails.

We’re debating a motion that says “the government of Ontario should work with the trail management clubs to establish a one-permit system for trails, and that individual clubs be provided with an option to opt out.”

I think I know what ATVs and UTVs and dirt bikes—I think I know what they all are, but I double-checked with the member from Mushkegowuk–James Bay, who showed me on his cellphone. He was showing me his favourites, showing me his pictures. I got to see a picture of his grandbaby, and I got to see a picture of his UTV, and I’m not sure which one he was more excited to show me.

But we’re talking about clubs across the province: clubs for ATVs, snowmobiles, four-wheelers, dirt bikes, maybe others, but they are responsible for the trails in their area. People, right now, if they were to travel from, I’ll say, zone to zone or club jurisdiction to club jurisdiction, might have to stop at those boundaries. And so here we are, talking about eliminating those boundaries for the clubs that choose to participate so that folks can travel across trails and across different club jurisdictions.

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This plan is working toward a one-trail permit so that clubs that participate in the one-permit program can create an interconnected, wider-reaching trail map without the boundaries—I’m looking for head nods; I basically have the gist. Okay, good. And clubs that don’t want to participate don’t have to. We want our trails safe, we want them sustained, and this is a step towards that better trail infrastructure.

I’ve had the opportunity to hear about opportunities when it comes to tourism and the community impact. We’ve talked a lot in Ontario about the changing seasons. We think about snowmobile season—it requires snow. Kay and George at my church—I’ll give them a shout-out—I have spent a lot of time listening to their fabulous stories, and I’ve learned about the culture of snowmobile vacations and their retiree adventures visiting communities and hotels and restaurants, being out enjoying the beauty of nature, but those adventures require snow, and since we have those changing seasons, we have an opportunity to make better use of those shoulder seasons. Hotels, restaurants, businesses and towns that rely on those tourism dollars need to be part of this conversation, which is why the OFATV folks are really making it clear to members in this House about this being the right decision for all of those communities, as well as the riders. ATVs don’t compete with snowmobiles; they have their own season, they bring tourism dollars to communities and they bring joy to folks.

I’ll say that this past summer, near the Trent-Severn canal at the lock there in Fenelon Falls, my husband and I were enjoying ice cream and a walk, and I was struck by all of the ATV folks who were there. You could see that they were arriving on the ATVs. They were also doing the same thing as everybody else who was showing up by car. It was actually the first time that I had seen that infrastructure on the roads with the posted signage and smart decisions making best use of everybody’s mode of transportation to be investing in communities. So this is part of that.

The minister said, “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventure”—there, I quoted you back; I know how excited you are—but there is more to do. This is that first step on the path—or, in this case, on the trail.

I’m going to share a little bit from a letter from President Ellenburger. Shawn Ellenberger had written to all of us, and I’ll just pick a couple of lines here: “ATVing has been rapidly gaining popularity in Ontario for years now, with 300,000 registered vehicles in the province—triple the number of snowmobiles. And yet, ATVers don’t have the same rights that snowmobilers are afforded in the province. In fact, Ontario is the most laggard province in Canada when it comes to ATV-related legislation, despite ATVs accounting for 70% of powersport trail use, and the province being home to over a quarter of managed trails in the country.”

They have support from all sorts of folks, and here’s what he goes on to say: “Ontario needs ATV legislation. Riders want to know that their rights and safety are being looked after. Ontario once demonstrated its willingness to listen to the voices of snowmobilers in Ontario, who had a nearly identical ask of government years ago.

“Now, with the endorsement of the Ontario federation of snowmobiling clubs, law enforcement, industry stakeholders and politicians, OFATV is calling on the government of Ontario to move forward with the timely implementation of the one-trail system this fall.”

Speaker, this is a non-binding motion. We’re looking forward to legislation to make this happen. Today’s motion is on the right path—or, rather, the right trail—so let’s get it in gear and let’s make it happen.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Ms. Mary-Margaret McMahon: Saving the best till last, I guess. It’s a pleasure to be here in the House tonight and welcome—especially a warm welcome to the OFATV crew up there tonight. Thanks for putting in the late hours with us.

I’m the critic for environment and climate action with the Liberals, as you know, and lifelong green girl. Full confession: I have never been on an ATV nor a snowmobile—so, full confession. And also, another shock to you: Believe it or not, I’m going to support the member for—oh my God, what is it?—Leeds–Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. Could you have a few more names in your riding? I’m going to support you like you’ve always supported me—wink, wink; oh, wait.

Actually, I just met with this energetic crew up there. Honestly, the energy and the passion was oozing from their pores. They just believe in safety and getting people outside and having Ontarians enjoy nature and doing it right—and this, as a first step towards legislation.

Currently as it stands, we know ATV riders can only access certain trails and must obtain permits to access them as needed. ATV rider advocates emphasize that this causes unnecessary stress, confusion and extra expenses. There are 600,000-plus ATV riders in Ontario and they account for 70% of powersport trail use.

Even though I represent a very urban riding, beautiful Beaches–East York, my hometown, you know, because I’ve spoken about it, Collingwood—apparently, Wasaga Beach has a riding club, so I might have to go there. Of course, we are here to represent all of Ontario, not just our riding.

The idea is, actually, without a unified voice recognized on a provincial level, this group, they cannot work together with the Ministries of Transportation, of Forestry, of the Environment and Parks, the OPP, etc., etc. So we want to connect all the clubs, and we want to empower an even stronger sense of camaraderie. Consequently, right now we lack trail maps, updates for users to refer to regarding the trail system and what portions of the trail are closed and open. And we know that there have been fatalities because of that lack of signage and information. It is so vital to the safety of riders. Also, I learned today that you need a winch—a winch, not a wench; sorry. It’s very necessary for your safety. More on that later.

There’s no difficulty rating system, so only riders with appropriate experience and knowledge can go on the trails. I know as a skier, in Collingwood—I grew up skiing, starting in grade 3, mandatory in grade 3 back in the day—Blue Mountain. You know, we have the black diamonds, double black diamonds, blue squares, green circles, and you need to know those trails. Because God help you if you’re on the wrong trail and you’re not skilled in that area.

Also, no speed limits, we heard today, and no standard riding etiquette, especially when multiple users are on the trail. For example, a cyclist—hello—like myself, or someone on horseback—these ATV clubs do not have the jurisdiction to ensure people stay off the trails where we need to focus on environmental stewardship.

We really want people to be safer on these trails, and this idea will help create that. With proper education, training, signage and enforcement options, perhaps we can reduce any potential accidents or, heaven forbid, fatalities.

I’m all for activation in parks. We live in an incredible province, and we want people to get the heck outside. Oh, the world would be such a much better place if more people got outside, and we know that studies show the benefits of being out in our green spaces. In Japan, it’s called Shinrin-yoku. It’s forest bathing, and just good for your mental health, your physical health, spiritual health, good for your soul.

The snowmobile association is already doing it. They are well on their way, way ahead of the game, so why not let the OFATV follow suit with the same abilities? We know that these groups are great stewards of our province. They’re out there, they’re on the trails every day. They can see what’s going on and they can report back any concerns or any improvements, anything needed. Other provinces are doing it, and we never want Ontario to lag behind. We want to get more people outside enjoying this gorgeous province and keeping them safe, so happy to support this motion.

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The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Hon. David Piccini: I’m really proud to rise to support my colleague for this important motion, something very close to my heart and the constituents I serve, because I recognize that conservation in communities where I’m from in rural Ontario isn’t best done out of a government office. It’s empowering everyday people to support and to conserve and to protect and care for the community in which they live.

There are no better stewards than the incredible men and women of district 3 ATV club. I want to give a big shout-out to Mike Ainsworth. I’m sad Mike is not here; I’m going to try and get him down to Queen’s Park. But I’ve had the privilege of joining Mike on a number of occasions on the trails. I’ve seen how Mike and others in Northumberland and the incredible OFATV team—the incredible care that they have, the incredible passion, the adventure, the outdoor spirit, supporting local businesses and restaurants.

I just want to lead off by thanking the many people—I just want to name a few: Dave Tougas, Chris Hart, Todd Tracey, Frederick Scott, Eric Lizotte, Darren Stiles, Angie Jones, Paul Maskos, Kari Walton, Jamie Brown, Mark Turney, Jeff MacLeod, Darrel Sherwood, Steve Beckett, Charlie Niklaus, Mark Besslich, and Robert Purdy, all of whom just very recently wrote to me about this. They’ve been clarion in their message. They said, “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventure,” and I love that slogan. I hope we run with it, because this is a common-sense solution—one pass to support ATVers around Ontario, many, constituents I serve. It’s a common-sense solution.

This bill reflects a practical, common-sense solution harmonizing standards, making life easier for those who enjoy the great outdoors. It’s connecting communities. Over 300,000 ATV owners in Ontario. These are the same owners who are the first to step up for our local community charities, are the first to give back and care for others, are the first to care for our trails, who have taken me outdoors, and I’m grateful for it. They maintain over 30,000 kilometres of trails systems. I wouldn’t enjoy the experience I get in Northumberland Forest if not for their incredible stewardship.

This is about simplifying access. A one-trail permit will eliminate duplication, streamline access, ensure riders can safely and responsibly use existing snowmobile trails. It strengthens the partnerships between the ATV clubs around Ontario. I know there’s a couple of difficult ones out there, but this bill has a common-sense solution to opt out. And it brings a coalition of the willing, of which there are so many across Ontario, to really streamline adventure, harmonize that and make it easy to travel from one community to the next.

It brings a great smile to my face when I see people from Lanark county, when I see people from Hastings, from Peterborough, from Kawartha, coming into Northumberland, enjoying Rice Lake, stopping by for a slice in Bewdley, stopping by Rhino’s—so many great spots that you can explore on Rice Lake. I mentioned it drives rural growth because it does. You see in winter in communities like mine, in summer in communities like mine, it’s the snowmobilers, it’s the ATVers out enjoying our community, driving rural economic growth, supporting tourism, visiting our local restaurants.

This is about reducing red tape, something so, so important to this government. It’s a commitment we made, where families, workers and outdoor enthusiasts can safely enjoy our natural beauty. As labour minister, and I want to close on this, it’s about healthy and safe and responsible ridership. That’s the first thing I got when I visited the Northumberland district 3 club—the commitment to safety. And I want to laud these responsible riders for the work that they do and for their commitment to empowering and instilling that safety culture in your family member, in the next generation of young men and women. You put safety first, and I just want to acknowledge and close on that because that’s what they’re doing.

I want to live in an Ontario where we are breaking down barriers to enjoy the wonders and the natural beauty that is our province. I want to thank the constituents of Northumberland–Peterborough South, who have been so vocal in advocating for a one-permit system, and close on thanking Councillor Ainsworth, who has been such a champion for this. Mike has been a real champion for the people and our community, and I want to thank you for your advocacy, Mike.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Mr. John Jordan: I want to thank MPP Clark for his leadership on creating a one-pass system for Ontario ATV trails. As a trail owner, Lanark county has had a strong working relationship with our local ATV club. Lanark county has partnered with the local ATV club to ensure riders on our trails are licensed, insured and responsible. The club’s volunteers provide many hours of labour each year to ensure our trails are safe and that riders are following the rules. They also participate in funding these trails.

The one pass proposed by MPP Clark’s motion represents a simple system to encourage more riders to buy passes, respect the rules and support the trails they ride on.

Trails are also popular throughout Frontenac county in my riding and beyond. I want to thank our Minister of Rural Affairs for the investment through the Rural Economic Development Program in our rural ATV trails. Recently, I was pleased, along with an MPP Pinsonneault, to announce investments in both Lanark and Frontenac counties because they are an economic driver. Along with Lanark country, Frontenac county is in full support of a single-pass system to manage and support motorized uses on trails in Ontario. There is also support for a one-pass system from the Ontario Federation of ATV Clubs and from the Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance.

Frontenac county has placed the development of trails at the centre of their economic development and tourism efforts and have invested over $4 million into rehabilitation of the former Kingston-Pembroke railway into the development of the K&P trail, a connection that starts in Kingston and ends in Renfrew. The trail intersects with other regional trails that connect destinations across eastern Ontario: the Cataraqui Trail, the Tay-Havelock Trail and the Algonquin Trail—the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail.

Speaker, I fully support this motion and thank MPP Clark for bringing it forward.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Mr. Andrew Dowie: I’ll have to echo the member from Beaches–East York: I’ve actually never been on an ATV or a snowmobile. But the day is going to come, because I am confident in the success of this bill.

We’ve already seen the Bruce Trail Conservancy, for example, demonstrate what it’s like to be a co-operative group of volunteers who come together and enhance a trail. We have tens of thousands of kilometres of trail throughout the province where, again, dedicated volunteers take part in the upkeep, and they certainly need those resources in order to make sure that the trails are maintained.

We see the complexity of having to go from trail to trail with different rules, different permits. So I love this concept of having a single permit. It includes the clear opt-out option for any club that wishes to do its work within its existing structure. But really, it’s not replacing what works; it’s about building on what works. It’s about supporting the partnerships that have made Ontario’s trail system a model for others and ensuring that these partnerships will continue to thrive in a truly modern, connected framework.

If the members here find reason to support this motion as I have, we will make it easier for residents and visitors alike to explore the great, great parts of Ontario’s natural beauty, strengthen our volunteer trail organizations and ensure that these proud traditions of Ontarian stewardship will continue for generations to come.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate?

Mr. John Vanthof: It’s always an honour to represent my party and the people of Timiskaming–Cochrane. Although sometimes I don’t get along with the government House leader, on this motion I am in full, full, full support. I’d like to shout out the club in Cochrane for all their work. I’d like to shout out to the people in Temiskaming Shores who tried to get me to go on a ride, but it was pouring so hard that day. And I have a side-by-side; I kind of know how the gig works.

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One of the first things that I did when I was elected is I put a motion forward that—it used to be if you had an ATV you could drive along the side of a provincial highway, but if you had a UTV—a side-by-side like I had—you couldn’t. It didn’t make any sense. I put a motion forward to change that and eventually the government adopted it and it made a lot more sense.

What the government House leader is doing right now is exactly the same thing. He’s gathering support, which it’s obvious that he’s got, and we are all going to work together to make this work. Because coming from Timiskaming–Cochrane, I know what the snowmobile industry does for our area and I know what the ATV people are already doing, but together we can do so much more.

It’s not often that everybody is in agreement on something. That doesn’t happen here—it hardly ever happens. But this evening—and on a personal note, Steve and I are friends. But this needs to be done. It’s a part of our lives, as the member from Mushkegowuk–James Bay said. It’s part of our lives in northern Ontario and it could be so great if many more people experienced what we experience on a daily basis. It should be part of almost everyone’s lives here. It could be. Ontario is one of the most beautiful places on earth and being in the bush is one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. There’s no better way to do it, in my opinion, than on a side-by-side with my wife and grandkids. This motion is a way to make that happen for everybody.

It’s not often that I approve of any kind of tag line from a Progressive Conservative. But “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventures”: I commend the member and I commend OFATV for their work bringing it this far. Together we’ll bring it all the way.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): Further debate? Further debate?

The member has two minutes to reply.

Hon. Steve Clark: I want to thank the following members: Mushkegowuk–James Bay; Carleton; Oshawa; Beaches–East York; the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development; the members for Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston, Windsor–Tecumseh and, of course, Timiskaming–Cochrane. Thank you so much for your kind words.

Again, I want to thank OFATV for all the work you’ve done on the ground. You’ve been a dream stakeholder to be able to work with, to work with all the members and present a consistent message. I’m really encouraged. I want you to know that the opposition House leader—I had a motion earlier on today that we’re going to vote on tomorrow. I don’t think it’s going to have the same vote as maybe this one tonight, so I’m glad I got the bad one out of the way earlier today.

Ms. Jennifer K. French: You admit it’s bad.

Hon. Steve Clark: No, I’m never going to admit it’s bad. I might admit it during private members’ business, but I sure ain’t going to admit it tomorrow during the vote.

All kidding aside, this is a great opportunity. I could have done it through a bill. We worked with the Ministry of Transportation. I gave you some credit, Speaker, as the parliamentary assistant. This was the way we could get everybody moving.

I’ve got my own views on how a club would opt out and I’ve had people talk to me in the province about not letting club executives do the opt-out, that there should be club membership. I’m going to let that be dealt with by the ministry. But there is a great opportunity. People that live in a rural riding or a northern riding can see ATVs at stores and at restaurants and it just warms my heart that there’s such a great opportunity.

Other provinces do it. Literally right across from my riding, in New York state, they do it. I think this is a great opportunity and it shows what private members’ business is all about, and that’s to have a good idea that everybody can get their head around.

So, “One Permit, One Province, Endless Adventure.” Thank you.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): The time provided for private members’ public business has expired.

Mr. Clark has moved private member’s notice of motion number 14.

Is it the pleasure of the House that the motion carry? Carried.

Motion agreed to.

The Acting Speaker (Mr. Ric Bresee): All matters relating to private members’ public business having been completed, this House stands adjourned until tomorrow, Wednesday, October 29, at 9 a.m.

The House adjourned at 1845.