For Immediate Release
July 20, 2007

The Niagara Parks Commission to Evaluate Formal Proposal
From Jay Cochrane

(Niagara Falls, ON Canada) At its regularly scheduled meeting, The Niagara Parks Commission reviewed a letter from Jay Cochrane dated July 16, 2007, asking the Commission to allow a high-wire walk over Niagara Falls in 2008.

After serious consideration and debate, the Commission indicated it would entertain a formal proposal from Mr. Cochrane for a proposed walk next season. While Mr. Cochrane has submitted an introductory letter, he has not submitted a full business plan, which is a requirement of the Commission. According to NPC Chairman Jim Williams, “the Commission must carefully examine its current policy in light of how such a walk would meet the interests of the Park, Province, public and local community we serve. This can be done as we await the submission of the business plan.”

This decision today is not the first time NPC has dealt with a request from Mr. Cochrane. In fact, the Commission rejected a formal proposal made by him and his representatives in 1996. NPC revisited this issue in 1999, and again indicated its opposition to this type of activity, as it was contrary to The Niagara Parks Act, which prohibits individuals from erforming or attempting to perform any stunt or feat without the written permission of the Commission. In 1977, a committee of Park Commissioners met with Niagara representatives of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to jointly review this issue. Their recommendations which, have formed current Park Policy, noted that the original purpose for establishing both Parks systems was to remove the carnival atmosphere that appeared adjacent to both cataracts. As a result, after considering issues such as the allocation of resources, environmental impact and public safety, both Park systems confirmed their existing positions to deny high-wire walks above Niagara.

The Commission has the authority to prohibit stunting and the performance of any feat within the Park under the authority granted by the Regulations of The Niagara Parks Act. Contravention of the Act carries a maximum fine of $10,000.

Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism. NPC’s mission is to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Falls and the Niagara River corridor for the enjoyment of visitors, all while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

For More Information Contact:
Jim Williams, Chairman
The Niagara Parks Commission
(905) 356-2241, ext. 223

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