The union which represents federal workers says government is laying off more than half the staff at Parks Canada.

The Public Service Alliance of Canada says government is laying off about 500 employees who protect our natural and cultural heritage, the environment, and parks and historic sites.

Alex Silas, a trustee for the Union of National Employees, says the employer has not explained what specific programs or services will be impacted by the cuts, or how they will affect communities across the country. He says cuts could mean reduced services, shorter seasons and sites that are harder to visit.

Parks Canada oversees facilities such as Signal Hill in St. John’s, Castle Hill in Placentia, Terra Nova National Park and Gros Morne. It’s unclear if the cuts will target employees in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The PSAC is calling on Ottawa to discontinue what it calls reckless cuts.