On April 17, RVs will line Sparks Street in Ottawa, Ontario from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The displays will be part of RVDA of Canada’s Advocacy Day. While the public interacts with the displayed RVs, 16 advocacy team members will push for change a block and a half away on Parliament Hill.
The association has been holding its annual Advocacy Day since 2004.
RVDA of Canada’s goal is to obtain 60 Parliament member meetings. There are currently 25 meetings scheduled; around 10 more are anticipated.
This year, advocates will meet with Parliament members throughout the year. RVDA of Canada President Eleonore Hamm said the association has begun scheduling meetings outside of Advocacy Day in 2023.
The strategy provides more schedule flexibility and preparation time. Hamm said the meetings are less rushed.
She said, “that actually helps the conversation continue.”
According to Hamm, the association’s consistent relationships with Parliament members enable the industry to be considered in legislative decisions.
Hamm said, “Having that communication is so key, so that when there is something…we are considered.”
This year, the association will be advocating for skilled labor education funding. The association is requesting national parks and campground infrastructure funding to promote tourism. As electric vehicles and electric RVs continue to roll out, RVDA of Canada is pushing for electric infrastructure funding.
The association is additionally proposing a tax amendment addressing border import taxes.
Dealers can get involved by completing RVDA of Canada’s advocacy survey.
Hamm said the survey is how dealers “are going to have their voice heard.”
The association additionally asks if dealers are interested in meeting with Parliament members. If so, dealers can schedule a meeting or take part in the Summer Outreach Program where members visit dealerships.
Hamm said, it is a “great opportunity for them to talk to their local representative.”
