CPS-ECP’s proposed dues increase: same great value for pennies a day

June 10, 2021

For all that has changed over the close to 154 years since Confederation, one undeniable truth remains intact: there is something uniquely special about being Canadian.

So, it follows that there’s something both compelling and satisfying about belonging to an organization that has at its core like-minded Canadians.

Since 1938, Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons – Escadrilles Canadiennes de Plaisance (CPS-ECP) has been that unifying not-for-profit organization for thousands of Canadians coast-to-coast-to-coast; the tie that binds being a shared commitment to, and advocacy for, boating safety and on-water courtesy.

As a CPS-ECP member, or as someone who is seeking membership, you are wise to ask yourself ‘What’s in it for me?’

For sure there are benefits, from simple and full access to any one of a number of boating-related courses to sizable wallet-relieving discounts on a number of boating products and services (visit https://www.cps-ecp.ca/membership-cps-ecp/member-benefits/ for an up-to-date list).

Still, intangibles, such as the above-noted bond between like-minded Canadian boaters, must be added to the equation to get a full sense of the value of your CPS-ECP membership. That’s on top of the many cherished friendships made and those yet to be nurtured. NAO Don Macintosh has said it best: “My CPS-ECP friendships have provided me with unique role models, social support and some riotous occasions.”

Since 2012, all this value has come members’ way upon payment of a $52 annual fee – $1 a week. The breakdown has seen $37 of that go towards the national operational budget with the remainder going directly to the squadrons and districts.

Here’s a challenge for you. Name something – anything – that hasn’t risen in cost since 2012. We’re as stumped as you are. Further, according to Bank of Canada figures, $37 in 2012 is the equivalent of $42.40 in today’s money.

The ongoing challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on CPS-ECP’s ability to cover the normal expenditures for our not-for-profit existence. Assuming the retention of 12,500 members, membership fees pay for about 70 percent of our day-to-day expenses. Combine that with a marked declined in revenue from in-person course sales as people pivot and adapt to taking online courses and the picture is clear: CPS-ECP’s continued viability is reliant on a membership fee increase.

In the meantime, we respectfully ask that you reflect on what your CPS-ECP membership has brought you and, by extension, yours over the years – the safety and navigational training, and the peace of mind and confidence that has brought; the discounts you’ve tapped into; the lifelong friendships that you have been blessed to make; and your affiliation with an organization for Canadians created by Canadians.

Let’s start the conversation now before you vote at October’s national AGM. We value your time and welcome your comments.

Send comments to theporthole@cps-ecp.ca Watch for feedback in monthly issues of On Board.