Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party have just unveiled a new initiative to strengthen Canada’s economy amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States – and it could make travel across the country a whole lot cheaper!
Over the weekend on April 12, Carney announced the “Canada Strong Pass”, which will allow children and teens under 18 to visit national museums and galleries for free, and ride VIA Rail at no cost when accompanied by their parents.
In addition, Carney has also pledged to reduce camping fees in national parks over the summer, as well as offer free access to national parks and historic sites. The party also said they are open to working with provincial and territorial governments to expand similar pricing models across the country.
The initiative intends to ease the cost for families looking to enjoy the outdoors in the warmer months, rather than travel across the border for a holiday.
“At a time when our economy is under attack from President Trump, Canadians are stepping up – helping our neighbours, buying local, and celebrating our beautiful country,” Carney stated.
“Whether it’s trips to national parks and historic sites, spending the day at a national art gallery or museum, or hiking Canadian trails, my new government will help the next generation discover all Canada has to offer this summer. We are a proud country – and united, we will strengthen our Canadian identity in the face of this crisis.”
To bolster domestic tourism, the Liberal Party also plans to create at least 10 new national parks, marine conservation areas, and 15 new urban parks across the country for Canadians to enjoy.
The Canada Strong Pass will be valid from June through August 2025, with discounted rates also available for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Currently, the U.S. government has implemented a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian imports and a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy and potash. In response, Canada imposed 25 per cent reciprocal tariffs on a list of products on $30 billion in goods imported from the U.S.