Poland’s Climate Ministry proposes shifting funding for mountain rescue (TOPR & GOPR) from park revenues to a dedicated ticket surcharge.
New Funding Model for Mountain Rescue
The Ministry of Climate and Environment has proposed changes to how funds are allocated to the Polish Mountain Volunteer Rescue Service (GOPR) and the Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service (TOPR). Currently, mountain national parks contribute 15% of ticket revenue to these services.
The new model would introduce a separate surcharge on ticket prices specifically earmarked for mountain rescue, rather than drawing from overall park income. The ministry argues this will strengthen rescue services and adapt to increasing tourism.
Tatra National Park Raises Concerns About Budget Cuts
Szymon Ziobrowski, director of Tatra National Park, expressed concerns that extending the 15% contribution requirement to other park revenue streams – such as parking and educational activities – would reduce park budgets.
Ziobrowski believes this shortfall would necessitate increased fees for tourists and anticipates a negative public response, potentially leading to multiple charges for a single visitor (e.g., entry, parking, services).
TOPR Advocates for Higher Contribution Rates and Clear Regulations
Jan Krzysztof, head of TOPR, highlighted the rising costs of rescue operations and proposed increasing the contribution rate to at least 20%. He also stressed the need for clearer regulations to avoid ambiguity in interpretation, specifically regarding whether the surcharge should be calculated on pre- or post-tax amounts.
Pieniny National Park Supports the Proposed Changes
Michał Sokołowski, director of Pieniny National Park, supports the changes, stating that adding the 15% fee directly to the ticket price does not diminish park revenues, allowing them to fulfill their statutory obligations. He also pointed to similar systems in Slovakia and the Alps, which include rescue fees and comprehensive tourist insurance.
Stricter Penalties for Unpaid Entry Fees
The ministry’s proposal also includes stricter penalties for tourists who do not pay the entry fee, requiring them to pay a multiple of the ticket price. A discount may be applied if the fee is settled within seven days.
Impact on Other Mountain National Parks
The obligation to contribute 15% of revenue to mountain rescue also applies to other national parks, including Karkonosze, Stołowe Mountains, Babia Góra, Gorce Mountains, Bieszczady, and Magura National Parks.