The federal government is extending the Canada Strong Pass through the winter months, offering free entry to national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas managed by Parks Canada. The program, first launched last summer, will continue to provide free access at locations that remain open year-round, such as Banff, Jasper and Fundy national parks.

The summer version of the program carried an estimated $100-million price tag. Extending it through the winter could bring total costs close to double that amount. Ottawa says the extension will encourage domestic tourism and connect Canadians to the country’s natural and cultural heritage during the off-season.

However, the expanded program comes at a time when the federal deficit is projected to exceed $35 billion and households are contending with rising living costs. Critics have questioned whether public funds would be better spent addressing issues that affect all Canadians, such as housing affordability, healthcare capacity and inflation relief.

Parks Canada recorded more than 16 million visits last year, many to sites that already see strong attendance without free admission. Extending the pass could increase visitor numbers but also heighten strain on facilities that are already under maintenance pressure.

While the Canada Strong Pass promotes travel, its $100-million price tag is drawing renewed debate about fiscal priorities. The question remains whether waiving entrance fees offers sufficient public benefit at a time when many Canadians are struggling to meet basic costs.