WINNIPEG: Freedom of Information requests filed by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) revealed the city of Winnipeg has lost $43,688 over the past six years by running a "river interpretive boat tour" division. The CTF learned that the boat tour service has been in operation since 1967 and has lost money in each of the last six years.

"Obviously this is not a core city service" said CTF-Manitoba director, Colin Craig. "It's also disappointing to see the city out competing with private sector boat tour companies."

Splash Dash and Paddlewheel River Boats Ltd. are examples of private companies that currently offer similar services.

The CTF brought the service to the mayor's attention and is pleased with his commitment to phase out the program.

"The Canadian Taxpayers Federation met with Mayor Katz and brought this issue to his attention." said Craig. "It's encouraging to hear that he has committed to phase out the service. Instead of losing money each year by operating a boat tour division, the city can use the savings to pay for core services like road repair."

The City of Winnipeg's freedom of information responses can be viewed here:

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